Golf Asia(Malaysia) - 2014 Apr

MCI (P) 019/02/2014

9 770219 060508

A PUBLICATION OF

Drivers Of The Year

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W W W . G O L FAS I A . S G

PPS 1317/04/2013 (022948)

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CONTENTS

24 16

FOREWORD

20 TEEBOX

• •

Creamer Thanks ‘Man Of Dreams’ For Long Awaited Win Team International Wins Oakley Skull Cup 2014

26 BUZZ 28 SCENE

• • • • • • • •

BMW Golf Cup International World Final 2013 Rolex And The Asian Tour Prestigious Flag-Off Jaguar Golf Day 2014 Growing China’s Golf The Asian Invasion Munson Savours Maiden Win at PGM CCM Rahman Putra Championship EurAsia Cup Trophy Showcases Best Of Malaysian Craftsmanship

62

46 GEARGUIDE

• •

Titleist Vokey SM5 Wedges The Drivers Of The Year

62 PROFILE

•

4 GOLF ASIA

Rory Returns

68

CONTENTS

124

68 INSTRUCTION

•

When good swings go bad!

73 ESCAPE

• •

Cape Continues To Blaze Golf’s Eco Trail A Vast Country Of Riches

95 DIRECTORY 101 LUXE LIFESTYLE

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Timepieces Timed To Surgical Precision Summer Fling Fierce Poise Posh Nosh Living Gadgets 84th Geneva International Motor Show Grand Philanthropy Exceptional Expeditions Cool Runnings Peak Performance Dashingly Dapper Celebrity Culture Diamond In The Rough Inspiration

106

126

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C O NTR I B UTO R S

JAMES SHARPE has been a contributor for Golf Asia since 2005. When he’s not scouring Singapore for the latest restaurants and snazziest gadgets, he lectures writing at Ngee Ann Polytechnic’s School of Film & Media Studies. When not working, James enjoys family life with his sons, the odd bit of Sailing and scooting about on his beloved Vespa.

SHONA MCRAE is the Assistant Director of Rules for The R&A, which governs the game worldwide and jointly administers the Rules of Golf, Rules of Amateur Status, Equipment Standards and World Amateur Golf Rankings with the United States Golf Association. Based in St Andrews, Scotland, Shona plays off a handicap of 6 and is a member of Ladybank Golf Club and St Regulus Ladies Golf Club.

PAUL MYERS Paul has spent almost his entire career in the media and communications industry in Australia, North America and Asia. Now based in Bangkok, he manages and part owns Asian Travel Media, the only dedicated golf tourism PR/ media company in Asia/Pacific. ATM’s clients are located throughout the region and the company is recognised as a leader in effective consumeroriented media communications.

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KEN LYE is a keen golfer and currently plays off a 4 handicap. He loves golf and pretty much all things related to golf. He is a ‘quasi’ equipment junkie and especially loves travelling for golf! With a penchant for the rules of golf, Ken is also a qualified SGA Rules Official. Since passing the R & A Rules Exam in 2005, Ken has refereed at professional golf events as well as certain major regional amateur events. Aside from his love of golf, Ken is a former investment banker who now runs his own business in finance and consulting.

NATASHA WONG started playing golf some 10 years ago and has developed a selfconfessed love-hate relationship with the game. These days, she plays off a 9-handicap and encounters a daily battle to curb her over-swing. Aside from being an ardent supporter of women’s golf, Natasha is also passionate about golf travel and photography. Armed with her camera, this amateur photographer is constantly seeking the elusive perfect golf shot…no pun intended!

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GOLFING

the putt of the decade I’m quite sure there have been others and we probably may see more of such putts in the future, but who could forget Paula Creamer’s skilful and miraculous 75-feet or 23-metre long eagle putt on the second play-off hole to win the recently concluded HSBC Women’s Champions held in Singapore.

In terms of pressure putts they don’t come any tougher than this, the challenging length as well as a tournament championship on the line, lesser mortals such as myself would quiver in fear. After watching replays for the 30th time, I’m quite certain that if Paula had picked the wrong line, her golf ball would have rolled off the green because it was gaining speed down the slippery sloping green. But, it was her day and her time to be crowned champion of champions!

But the putt aside, her celebration after sinking the putt has to go down in golfing history as one of the most animated, exuberant and genuine I’ve seen! Honestly, I don’t think we have seen such a reaction from the guys on tour, the last I remember was Tiger fist pumping after his winning putt at the 2005 Masters.

Understandably, pro golfers have to learn to control their emotions out on the course but Paula’s reaction to her winning putt, one of disbelief at first and then pure euphoria, was a much welcomed sight. Providing a little glimpse that these pros are actually humans after all!

BEN POON ben@regentmedia.sg

16 GOLF ASIA

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GOLFING TEE BOX

Creamer Thanks ‘Man Of Dreams’ For Long Awaited Win Paula Creamer produced a miraculous 75-foot eagle putt on the second play-off hole to win the US$1.4 million HSBC Women’s Champions in dramatic fashion

P

IMAGES © HSBC GETTY IMAGES

aula Creamer thanked the “man of my dreams” for her return to winning ways as she ended the longest drought of her career in thrilling fashion in Singapore. Creamer sank a wondrous, 75-foot eagle putt on the second play-off hole to win the US$1.4 million 2014 HSBC Women’s Champions, her ninth victory but the first since the 2010 US Women’s Open.

In between, Creamer has undergone difficulties relating to thumb surgery, with low points including a jolting defeat

20 GOLF ASIA

on the ninth play-off hole to Shin Ji-Yai at the 2012 Kingsmill Championship.

But boosted by her pilot fiancé Derek Heath, a new swing thought and extra practice on Sentosa Golf Club’s testing greens, she eked out a fabulous playoff win over Spain’s Azahara Munoz.

“It has everything to do with it,” said Creamer, when asked what role her relationship had played in the victory. “I am in such a good place, I am blessed with what I have, and I’m blessed with what I’ve been given. It’s a lot of hard

work, there’s a lot of up and downs but Derek just makes me so happy, he makes me want to be better... I’ve had a lot of expectations and to have met the man of my dreams, basically, you can’t take anything away from that. That’s 100 percent the reason I’m sitting here today, the way that I am. He makes me happy and allows me to play better golf.”

Creamer said a new swing thought devised by her coach mid-tournament had done wonders for her game as she came from four shots back on

Azahara Munoz.

Golfing tips and exchanging insights about life all par for the course

S the final day to overhaul three-round leader Karrie Webb. And she said hours of extra practice on the slick, undulating Singapore greens had set up her putting performance on Sunday, culminating in the snaking 75-footer.

“I’m glad there were so many photographers and cameras there, I can relive the moment over and over again,” said Creamer, who was overcome by emotion when the putt dropped.

It would be fun to show my kids one day - ‘See what your mom did!’”

Michelle Wie.

Final scores from the US$1.4 million HSBC Women’s Champions 2014: 278 - Paula Creamer (USA) 67-73-69-69, Azahara Munoz (ESP) 69-72-67-70 Creamer wins tournament on second play-off hole 279 - Karrie Webb (AUS) 66-69-70-74 281 - Ryu So-Yeon (KOR) 71-71-73-66, Park In-Bee (KOR) 70-72-71-68, Suzann Pettersen (NOR) 71-70-70-70, Morgan Pressel (USA) 71-69-70-71, Angela Stanford (USA) 68-69-69-75 283 - Michelle Wie (USA) 73-71-69-70, Teresa Lu (TPE) 68-70-70-75 284 - Ji Eun-Hee (KOR) 71-73-71-69, Chella Choi (KOR) 73-71-69-71, Choi NaYeon (KOR) 71-70-71-72 285 - Jang Ha-Na (KOR) 73-69-71-72 286 - Lydia Ko (NZL) 73-69-73-71

So Yeon Ryu.

ome 24 children were given the rare opportunity to meet one of the world’s top women golfers, Feng Shan Shan, up close and personal. The young charges had the opportunity to hear first-hand from Shan Shan about her long and challenging journey to success, and how her achievements in golf is underpinned by hard work and discipline in life.

The children, aged 7 to 16, are beneficiaries of Bedok North Moral Family Service Centre, a voluntary welfare organisation (VWO) which has been a long-time partner of HSBC for its corporate responsibility programme.

Shan Shan was joined at the HSBC event by Singapore’s top junior golfers, Amanda Tan of the HSBC Youth Golf Challenge fame, and Janet Li, a veteran player from the HSBC Junior Golf Programme in China. Besides joining Shan Shan to interact with the children, Amanda and Janet also conducted a golf clinic for the children.

“Through these worldwide junior golfing tournaments such as the HSBC Youth Golf Challenge, we aim to help young people develop the values that will enable them to become good individuals in life. Our main takeaway for the children present today is that each one of them has the ability to succeed regardless of their circumstances,” said Mr Guy Harvey-Samuel, CEO, HSBC Singapore.

Shan Shan, Amanda and Janet were hosted to a visit at the home of brothers Lim Jun Hong (12) and Jun Wei (10). The two brothers’ 3-room flat had been refurbished and fitted with study desks by HSBC staff volunteers last year as part of the HSBC Corporate Responsibility Challenge.

The brothers were picked for the up-close-andpersonal session with Shan Shan as further motivation for having shown improvement in their studies and behaviour since HSBC volunteers refurbished their home. The brothers and their parents also proudly showed the golfers around their refurbished home, including the conducive study area set up for them.

GOLF ASIA 21

GOLFING TEE BOX (L to R) Brittany Lang, Irene Coe, Morgan Pressel, Nicole Castrale and Paula Creamer (all of the USA) during the HSBC Women's Champions Welcome Reception

TMaG warriors show their prowess

L

PGA stars and TaylorMade adidas Golf Professionals Danielle Kang and Jessica Korda joined fans and media at Palawan Beach for a display of their golfing skills ahead of their appearance at the HSBC Women’s Champions held at Singapore’s Sentosa Golf Club.

They started proceedings with a special contest where six lucky Facebook winners and local amateur as well as TMaG ambassador, Koh Sock Hwee, joined them. Their first challenge was to hit the ball inside the life buoys that were floating in the water; Jessica and Danielle were the closest. Next test was to hit across the stretch of water for a ‘nearest to the pin’ challenge onto a specially created green – Korda getting top honours on that one. Last but not least was for Danielle to show-off her long, powerful drive by powering a ball over and beyond the viewing platforms and off into the South China Sea. Danielle was gushing about her latest apparel to the attending media saying, “I just love adidas clothing. It is the perfect fit, I love the great colours and their designs are simple yet unique. It’s pretty and just right for my style.”

22 GOLF ASIA

GOLFING TEE BOX

Team International Wins Oakley Skull Cup 2014 Singaporean duo plays decisive role in win over Team USA

A

t the last Oakley Skull Cup, Team International took a beating and lost the cup to Team USA. This year the event held on the same course, the Gainey Ranch Golf Club in Phoenix, Arizona, the table has turned. Team International took home the cup after an awesome battle. The tournament was played in Ryder Cup format over 2 days with Team international leading both days with 6 & 4 and 11 & 9 to come out victorious.

Team USA, made up of winners from

24 GOLF ASIA

10 Oakley Pro Am Golf Tournaments held around USA in 2013 were against Team International, made up of 4 representatives from Europe, 4 from Australia and 2 from Singapore.

The 2 Singaporean representatives who made us proud were Pro Golfer Quincy Quek as well as winner of the 2013 Singapore Oakley Golf Day, Low Wee Jin. Both Low and Quek, who were national players with ample tournament experience, teamed up brilliantly. Low’s strong wedge play and Quek’s long and

accurate drive helped them win the first day’s match.

Quek who had to play against Big American, Isaac Sanchez from the Big Break NFL, on the final day, had a hunch on day 1 that Sanchez would be his challenger when he first met him.

The match was very close with Quek down by 2 holes at one point. But he kept his cool and managed to pull even and won the last hole that helped Team International win the Oakley Skull Cup! Champagne showers rolled in

immediately following the final putt of the tournament and the on-course party carried onto an even bigger party later that night. In typical O fashion, Oakley staff, athletes, local retail accounts and special guest athletes/personalities dropped into the massive banquet hall at the Talking Stick Resort for a feast, a series of awards, the trophy presentation, red carpet treatment and live music performances.

The fun did not end there. The very weekend was the Waste Management Phoenix Open. All Oakley Skull Cup players were given VIP treatment at the Oakley Hospitality tent on the popular 16th Hole of the Waste Management Phoenix Open. On top of that Quek and Low got to visit Oakley’s headquarters at Foothill Ranch, California with the added bonus of touring downtown LA. Quek says: “Everyone was so friendly and accommodating. Winning was definitely a bonus. Being a team event, you share the victory with 9 other players, 2 captains and all the supporters. This means that the celebration was magnified many times over. Super awesome! The Oakley hospitality tent at the WM Phoenix Open was very unique and different to the ones I’ve been. Its open concept really allowed us to soak in the crazy atmosphere that is synonymous with the 16th Hole. Lastly the visit to Oakley HQ was very informative.

I’ve been lucky enough to have worn Oakley products for many years, and to see how it’s made from scratch, with so much attention to the details, is truly a privilege”.

GOLF ASIA 25

GOLFING BUZZ

ADIDAS GOLF PUREMOTION TOUR APPAREL COLLECTION adidas Golf’s new puremotion Tour apparel collection has been designed with the golfer’s body in mind, to help deliver maximum performance with minimal restriction during the golf swing. Reimagining the fit, feel and performance of tour-proven apparel, adidas Golf designers utilized high-performance, maximum-stretch, moisture-wicking fabrics developed to keep golfers cool in warmer conditions. adidas Golf Tour staff professional Dustin Johnson debuted the puremotion Tour collection at the Hyundai Tournament of Champions in January, and the rest of the adidas Golf tour stable will be outfitted in the collection throughout the 2014 PGA TOUR and LPGA season.” During tournaments, I want apparel that’s not just comfortable, it also needs to work with my swing to allow my body to work the way I need,” said Dustin Johnson, eight-time PGA TOUR winner. “puremotion apparel is incredibly lightweight and fits great. It moves with my body and keeps me cool, and that allows me to concentrate on my game.” Utilising advanced engineering technologies throughout the development process, puremotion Tour Polos provide a bonded, precision fit designed to keep athletes distraction-free and swinging to their fullest potential throughout the course of play. Available at retail now, visit adidasgolf. com to view the entire puremotion Tour collection and the rest of the adidas Golf range featuring puremotion technology.

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GC2 SMART CAMERA SYSTEM BY FORESIGHT SPORTS More than a launch monitor, more than a simulator, it’s a game changer. With the GC2, golfers can practice or play golf in any environment with equally trusted results. Outdoors, the portable GC2’s exclusive self-levelling technology provides verifiably accurate results on every surface and on every shot. Indoors, the GC2 produces the most accurate measurements of ball characteristics at launch. And at less than 10 inches long and under four pounds, the GC2 moves from outdoor to indoor as easily as it fits in the golf bag. With a patented on-screen golf ball identification system and self-levelling accelerometer the GC2 redefines simplicity.

No calibration or no marked balls, out of the golf bag, the GC2 can be set up and ready to go in less than a minute. At the heart of the GC2 is a stereoscopic camera system that precisely captures and analyzes ball characteristics at the most critical point of measurement - club impact - to deliver the most accurate values of ball performance available today. As a launch monitor, the GC2’s large, outdoor-readable LCD display and audio feature deliver ball performance data in real-time, eliminating the need for a separate laptop or monitor to view your data. Plug the GC2 into a computer running simulation software and turn virtually any space into a performance-driven golf simulator. No other launch monitor solution available today delivers the indoor / outdoor capabilities of the GC2. And unlike other solutions, the GC2 never compromises on accuracy. For more information, visit authorised distributor The Learning Tee’s Golf Studio located at Eastech, Block 3016 Bedok North Ave 4, #05-21.

TOURLINKS PUTTING GREENS 40% of all shots on the course are made with the putter, so by reducing the number of putts per round, golfers can lower their scores dramatically. The only way that is going to happen is through practise and the Tour Links putting green system can help golfers achieve that. It is the first all weather, do it yourself synthetic putting green that allows golfers to practice like the pros in their backyard, home or office. With Tour Links, golfers can enjoy the quality of professionally installed synthetic turf practice golf greens at a fraction of the cost. So be it an indoor putting green, an outdoor putting green, rooftop green, patio green or backyard putting green, Tour Links has the right synthetic yet realistic putting green. The Standard Links Collection is an all-weather series of greens designed with the average golfer in mind. The smaller footprint and affordable pricing allows any golfer the advantage of practicing at home or in the office and mastering those tough, short putts we all struggle with out on the course. Despite their smaller sizes, these greens are the favourites of some of the top teaching professionals and golfers in the game. As with all Tour Links Putting Greens the Standard Links Collection was designed to withstand the harshest of elements. The Learning Tee located at Eastech, Block 3016 Bedok North Ave 4, #05-21, is the authorised distributor of Tourlinks Putting Greens.

NIKE GOLF WANTS TO KNOW: WHAT’S YOUR RZN? Nike golf’s new RZN Recommender tool helps golfers choose the best RZN golf ball for their game. More distance, softer feel, less spin, more spin, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to golf balls. That’s the idea behind the new Nike RZN Recommender; a digital tool that helps golfers find the RZN golf ball that best fits their specific needs. The Nike Golf ball team tapped into feedback from in-person ball fittings to craft a range of simple questions for users to answer, such as, What’s your average score? What is your club head speed? Stay within the fairway or slice and hook? What is your ball flight? What do you want out of your approach shots? Based on users’ responses, the tool doesn’t just tell golfers which Nike RZN ball is best for them, it tells them why. Every ball in the Nike’s 2014 RZN line features Nike’s proprietary Speedlock RZN core technology, created with an interlocking core design that helps promote better energy transfer between the layers at impact for faster ball speed, longer distance and more stability into the wind. A new spin-optimized coating on the outer surface of the ball helps grip the grooves for better control on wedge and iron shots. All four models feature a softer cover and softer compression in the core to help provide improved sound and feel, especially on off-centre shots.

Find the right RZN for yourself at www.nike.com/nikegolf/ballrecommender.

WILSON STAFF FG TOUR M3 DRIVER The first adjustable driver from Wilson Staff features Multi Fit System technology that allows golfers to adjust both the loft and the sole weight for optimized trajectory and increased club head speeds. The FG Tour M3 driver is tailored to the better Feel (F) and Control (C) players seeking a more compact head at address and unmatched distance. The six separate loft settings and three performanceenhancing sole weight options in the Multi Fit System make this driver customizable for optimized trajectory and increased club head speeds. The driver head comes set at an initial loft of 9.5°. Based on the player’s preferred ball flight, lofts can be adjusted to 8.5°, 9.0°,

9.5°, 10.5°, 11.0° and 11.5°. The Super Light (silver) 3-gram sole weight, The Right Light (gold) 7-gram sole weight and the Traditional (black) 11-gram sole weight all come included in a pouch with an adjustability wrench and manual. A variable thickness face maximizes CT across the face and increases ball speeds.

The lighter chemically etched crown helps create a favourable sound and ideal mass redistribution. The deep face, smaller footprint and tour-preferred pear shape make the 460cc head appear more compact at address. An iced matte painted crown and black PVD finish provides an understated yet performanceinspiring look. Available now at all Golf House retail outlets.

GOLF ASIA 27

GOLFING TEE BOX

BMW Golf Cup International World Final 2013 A full-on experience extended to BMW Golf Cup participants in Phuket, Thailand

T

he BMW Golf Cup International World Final 2013 witnessed a home win by Thai golfer Boonma Chaya for the Men’s A division with a total of 111 points, a clear lead over Lucas Murtagh (Australia, 98) and Chulho Kim (South Korea, 97).

Held recently from the 13th to 15th March, the battleground for the 2013 BMW Golf Cup International World Final was the Blue Canyon Country Club in Phuket, Thailand. Attended by golfers from across 50 nations, the tournament comprises of four categories, Men’s A (up to handicap 12), Men’s B (handicap 13 to 28), Ladies (up to handicap 28) and the overall winning Nation.

Singapore was represented by BMW customers Patrick Loh, Lim Thoong Fook and Norlia Embong, and of the trio, both Patrick Loh and Norlia Embong claimed top 10 positions in the Men’s A and Ladies category respectively.

Kelly Marutani, Jimmy Masrin & Sendy Susanto, represented Indonesia while Team Malaysia comprised of Datin Teo Chan Huat, Dato Shamsuar Mahmood and SP Maniam Subramaniam.

Team South Africa, meanwhile, managed to retain their title for the second consecutive year, with 181 points to their name. The South African trio of Ms Lynette Smith (Ladies), Mr Barry van der Vyver (Men’s A) and Mr Johan Barnard (Men’s B) achieved the highest net score and finished ahead of teams from New 28 GOLF ASIA

About BMW Golf Cup International

T Zealand and Australia (both 179) in second and third place respectively.

This year’s World Final was a thrilling affair, with two of the three categories going to a play-off. The play-off in the Ladies class featured three players who all finished with 89 points after 54 holes. Fortune eventually favoured Ms Dieye Ep Seck Oumou Kalsome from Senegal, who overcame the challenge of Ms Kelly Marutani (Indonesia) and Ms Asako Matsuki (Japan) after two extra holes of the Canyon Course. Mr Johan Barnard took just one extra hole to add the Men’s B title to the one he won in the national competition, defeating Mr Florian Farnleitner (Austria, both 104) in their play-off.

After the drama of the final rounds, the participants got to witness why Sir Nick Faldo is one of the best golfers in the world during a special golf clinic on the Canyon Course. The six-time Major winner showed glimpses of his renowned British sense of humour, as he mimicked the mistakes made by typical amateur golfers and then provided tips on how to avoid them.

During the gala dinner, Mr Matthias

Pfalz, President of BMW Group Thailand, along with Sir Nick Faldo and double Olympic Luge champion Natalie Geisenberger, jointly presented the BMW Golf Cup International trophies to the winners of the World Final 2013: Team: South Africa Men’s A (Handicap up to 12): Mr Boonma Chaya (Thailand) Men’s B (Handicap 13 to 28): Mr Johan Barnard (South Africa) Ladies (Handicap up to 28): Ms Dieye Ep Seck Oumou Kalsome (Senegal) Regarded as one of the largest and most renowned international amateur golf tournaments in the world, the BMW Golf Cup International 2013 sees the participation of more than 100,000 golfers from 6 continents. In this year’s World Final round, players from 50 countries battled over three rounds. Despite tense moments over three rounds of golfing competition, the tournament ended with a joyous mood coupled with friendly handshakes amongst all players.

BMW also made sure that family members travelling with the participants

he foundations for the BMW Golf Cup International were laid in England in 1982, BMW organised the BMW Invitation Tournament for the first time. Amateurs were invited by various BMW dealers and played six regional tournaments, which were followed by the final at the famous Belfry golf course just outside Birmingham.

In 1992 the BMW Invitation Tournament was integrated in the BMW Golf Cup International. This had been founded five years earlier, but was only played in the home of BMW, Germany. Three years later the competition had flourished to such an extent that the World Final celebrated its premiere in Portugal.

Today, more than 25 years later, in Germany alone approximately 15,000 golfers compete in the qualification tournaments for the World Final. Roughly 100,000 amateur golfers from about 50 countries compete around the world.

did not feel left out, as exciting fringe activities were planned for them extensively. Some of the activities included Thai cooking classes, heritage sightseeing guided tours, elephant trekking tours, sea life discovery & underwater experience, shopping tours, BMW Driving Experience, and more.

GOLF ASIA 29

Rolex And The Asian Tour Rolex, the world’s leading Swiss watchmaker extends partnership with the Asian Tour

IMAGES © ROLEX / CHRIS TURVEY / JEAN-DANIEL MEYER

R

olex has been the Official Timekeeper of the Asian Tour since 2011, supporting the growth and promotion of golf across Asia.

Its long-standing commitment to the game also includes partnerships with other major international golf tours and prestigious tournaments around the world, including The Open Championship, the U.S. Open, the Masters Tournament, the Presidents Cup, the World Golf Championships and the Ryder Cup when held in Europe.

Rolex has also been associated with many of the world’s best golfers since Arnold Palmer became the first Rolex golf Testimonee in 1967. Other top names associated with Rolex include icons such as Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, Tom Watson, Tiger Woods, Phil Mickelson and Adam Scott.

Asian Tour Chairman Kyi Hla Han said: “Rolex is a world-class brand synonymous with excellence and prestige, and we are delighted that they will continue as our Official Timekeeper for another three years. The Asian Tour and our talented members are poised to extend our growing influence in the game following the completion of our milestone 10th season last year and we could not have asked for a better partner than Rolex to remain with us in the next chapter of our exciting journey.”

As professional golf continues to expand across Asia, Rolex is proud to be associated with the Asian Tour, which continues to lead the development of the game in the region. The decision to extend the partnership with the Asian Tour demonstrates the brand’s active support for the future of the game in Asia.

GOLF ASIA 31

GOLFING SCENE

Prestigious Flag-Off Prestige Tours & Events Management thrills golfers with their inaugural CNY Networking Golf Day

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ith less than 2 months to plan and prepare, Prestige Tours & Events Management overcame the odds to put together a wonderful day of great golf, coupled with delectable cuisine & beverages and non-stop dinner entertainment which kept the participants excited for more. Highlights of the day included, custom goodie bags, on-course refreshments, revolutionary VPAR live golf scoring, Beat-the-Pro Contest, and Hole-in-One Prizes worth nearly S$150,000. There was no let up during the evening’s proceedings and entertainment highlights include TV personality Craig Teo as the emcee, a lion dance to ring in the new year, an interesting LED dragon dance, juggling & balancing acts, professional contortionists from China and lucky draw prizes worth nearly S$20,000.

Prestige Tours & Events Management’s dynamic duo of Ms Doris Khaw and Ms Marilyn Cheok will surely take the company to greater heights. The event was indeed a spectacular event and the company is well placed for a fabulous year as they look forward to sharing and expanding their expertise and passion with their extensive network of friends from both golf and corporate circles.

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Jaguar Golf Day 2014 Jaguar owners get up close and personal with Azahara Muñoz & Catriona Matthew

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s the Official Car Sponsor for the HSBC Women’s Champions for the third consecutive year, Wearnes Automotive hosted the Jaguar Golf Day 2014 for their owners at Sentosa Golf Club on 3rd March 2014.

The day began in the early morning with a sumptuous buffet breakfast and a quick introduction of the LPGA pros that would be teeing off with the owners at Holes 2 and 16 – Azahara Muñoz and Catriona Matthew. 26-year-old Muñoz came close to winning this year’s HSBC Women’s Champions tournament, competing neck-and-neck in a play-off

against Paula Creamer who eventually clinched the title with a miraculous 75foot eagle putt.

In addition to the attractive tournament and novelty prizes, golfers had the opportunity to walk away with the Hole-inOne prize at Hole 13 – a Jaguar F-TYPE Convertible. Awarded the World Car Design of the Year 2013, this two-door convertible is capable of 550 PS of power and completes the century sprint in a breathtaking 4.2 seconds.

The event wrapped up with a lunch reception and prize presentation.

Although none of the golfers walked away

with the coveted Jaguar F-TYPE, they clearly enjoyed the game and being able to get up close and personal with LPGA pros Muñoz and Matthew.

Lee Hoe Lone, Managing Director of Jaguar Land Rover, Wearnes Automotive said, “We are extremely proud to have two amazing golfers in Azahara Muñoz and Catriona Matthew play with our owners, especially Azahara Muñoz who fought so bravely in this year’s HSBC Women’s Champions. We look forward to organising more of such events to engage our owners and thank them for supporting Jaguar.”

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Growing China’s Golf Most have no idea it exists but the China Amateur Golf Tour is already in its 13th year

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he meteoric rise of China’s golfing elite certainly didn’t happen overnight, and it culminated in the country having the youngest player ever to play in the prestigious Augusta Masters, (Guan Tianlang at 14 years & 6 months young) as well as the youngest player to ever compete on the European Tour (Ye Wocheng at 12 years & 8 months).

2013 Best of the Best challenge winners.

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The accomplishments of these as well as other Chinese players on the world stage have amazed the international golfing media and public, and left all wondering how did China suddenly emerge to be a golfing superpower?

Here’s a little known fact that has a lot to do with the development and growth of golf in the land of dragons & phoenixes.

For the past 12 years, there has been a developmental amateur golf tournament known as the China Amateur Golf Tour organised by Forward Golf, an extremely apt name for what they have done for golf in China. The country’s sports ministry, the China Golf Association, China Citic Bank and other long-term sponsors such as BCLN Golf have been supporting,

BCLN CONTINUES SUPPORT OF THE CHINA AMATEUR GOLF TOUR

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sanctioning as well as sponsoring this tournament since its inception in 2001 and there have been well over 75 tournaments organised since then.

If you assume this is just an event that only happens during the summer or school holidays you will be pleasantly surprised to learn that this tournament, going into its 13th year in 2014, is a full tournament circuit comparable even to some professional golf tours. The series travels to nine states in China and attracts all the best amateurs, from juniors to enthusiasts, from all over the country. The whole series culminates in a grand final for winners of all the different legs and a Best of the Best challenge tournament.

To make sure the tournament doesn’t become the sole privy of the rich and elite, Forward Golf goes a step further, as the organiser chips-in to help many talented players unable to afford the airfare or lodging for the

tournaments, to foot their bills.

The set-up for each event is impressive, there are numerous sponsor signages and banners all around the clubhouse as well as on the golf course, photographers as well as television crews from the country’s major newspapers, golf related websites and magazines, and television channels are usually present to cover the tournaments. There are clubfitters on hand to do last minute grip changes, realignments or shaft replacements if needed. All these make for an event that is only bested by those on the European or PGA Tour.

There is certainly no doubt that China is an emerging golfing superpower, and it is no longer a question of if, or can, the country produce an international golfing icon with multiple major wins the likes of Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Gary Player or Tiger Woods, rather it is only a matter of time.

f you ask any member on the organising committee of the China Amateur Golf Tour about BCLN Golf’s Simon Yoh, you will be automatically transformed into an instant best friend. Such is the respect and admiration they have for the man behind BCLN Golf, whom those on the steering and organising committee approached 13 years ago to sponsor and support the then new tour, and without hesitation agreed to so.

Tommy Chen of Forward Golf, the organisers and steering committee of the China Amateur Golf Tour enthuses, “When my father and I approached Simon to support the amateur golf tour, he was just as enthusiastic about it as we were and immediately agreed to do so.

That was 13 years ago, and through Simon and other like-minded sponsors, their unwavering support and sponsorship over all these years, the China Amateur Golf Tour has definitely grown strength to strength. And we are proud to be able to be a part of and groom the future golf champions of China.”

Simon adds, “The China Amateur Golf Tour organised by the highly competent team at Forward Golf have put in a tremendous amount of effort, time and resources to help bring China’s golf to where it is today, much of what they do and the tournament is not very well known outside of China. But it is in no small part due to the work they do through the amateur golf tour that China has emerged to be a golfing superpower worth reckoning and I am really proud that BCLN Golf can play but a small part in their success.“

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The Asian

Invasion Led by China and the Republic of Korea, Asian golf is flourishing.

Duncan Lennard examines the learning culture and teaching practices that are producing so much young talent.

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The extraordinary resort of Mission Hills in China is fast creating the stars of tomorrow.

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t a recent Asian junior tournament, an 11-year-old Chinese boy carved his tee shot way right.

As he trudged off the tee, his aunt engaged him – not with words of encouragement, but with a mean right hook, that sent the lad sprawling.

The Chinese phrase ‘chi ku’ is roughly translated as ‘eat bitterness’.

It’s a phrase often used to describe the uncompromising blend of tough love and sheer hard graft favoured by the Chinese – and that other Asian golfing hotbed, South Korea – in nurturing the talent of their children.

Unsavoury it may appear to the western palette; but in Asia, compromise is not on the agenda. “The Asian way is to do what it takes,” says Dan Webb, a Canadian coach who has worked with Chinese children, including 15-year-old sensation Guan Tianlang, for the past nine years. “Its model for success is

based on fear and a tremendous work ethic. Some parents can be really hard on their kids. The berating can be pretty deep, and sometimes it gets physical.

Other times it is more psychological – for example disowning their children.”

“It’s the way it’s been done in these parts of the world for thousands of years,” adds Britain’s David Watson, another China-based coach who tutors the youngest European Tour player ever, Ye Wocheng. “It’s a little daunting at times, but it’s an approach that has created much success in other sports.

So I try to learn from it and use it. In my coaching, if a junior player fails in a certain goal or exercise I will give them a physical ‘punishment’ – push-ups or leg presses on the side of the green.

I’d lose my job in minutes if I tried that in America, but over here it works well: they have fun while they do it, and they are getting physically and mentally

stronger. Ye can do 50 push-ups now.”

The potency of tough love is nowhere better illustrated than the career of Se Ri Pak, the inspiration for the massive growth in Korean ladies’ golf. Stories of her father making his daughter camp out alone in graveyards, and practise in frost until ice formed in her hair, have entered golf lore. Se Ri went on to win five Majors and 20 other LPGA events.

And Se Ri’s dad Joon Chul is not alone. Another successful LPGA Korean, Mi Hyun Kim, was famously forbidden to marry until she won a Major. It all makes Earl Woods shouting on young Tiger’s backswing sound pretty tame.

“It’s not the way we do it in the west, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t right,” adds Webb. “It creates a different set of rules where the focus and pressures are different. It’s clearly a system that can develop a huge amount of competence.

But whether it develops the inspiration GOLF ASIA 37

GOLFING SCENE

needed to become a champion is a different matter. It worked for Se Ri: but this is something we talk about all the time. You have to keep an open mind.”

GRASS ROOTS DEVELOPMENT Back in 1983, there were 1.15m rounds of golf played in Korea. By 2009 that number had soared, peaking at 18.2m.

Today, an estimated 4m Koreans (one in 12 of the population) play the game.

Interest in the game in Korea may have been sparked by 1980s government funding, but it was certainly the emergence of the so-called Seoul Sisters that truly set it ablaze. When Se Ri Pak emerged on the LPGA Tour in 1998, she was one of only two Korean girls. Now there are 39 in the Tour’s top 100 alone.

“Koreans are very sensitive to trends,” explains John Kang, a Korean coach.

“They look at what works, analyse it, and copy it. Many Korean parents saw the success of Se Ri Pak and Grace Park; they knew the players and their parents endured a lot of intensive training together. So Korean parents now train their kids in a similar way.”

Golf’s development in the People’s Republic of China is some way behind Korea’s, inevitably perhaps, given the modern game has existed there for barely 30 years, after Communist leader Chairman Mao’s 1949 ban was revoked. Yet the country is giving every impression of making up for lost time. The number of golf courses has tripled in the past decade; in that time, the number of Chinese golfers has

Inbee Park from South Korea wins her third consecutive Major in 2013.

‘Mi Hyun Kim was forbidden to marry until she won a Major; which makes Earl’s tactics sound pretty tame’ grown from 500,000 to three million.

Golf remains a rich person’s game in China – a country of some 1.3bn people – but the nation’s growing affluence is making it increasingly affordable. Webb estimates that in the nation’s primary markets, such as Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzen, the game is growing at a rate of 20 per cent per year. “Then there are secondary markets like Chonquing

THE SE RI PAK FACTOR Florida-based coach Tom Creavy on how the Korean’s success inspired a whole continent

“I

first met Se Ri Pak at the end of 1996. For the first six months, we worked on her full swing for at least three hours a day, at least six days a week. Although she played just one mini tour event prior to the

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1997 LPGA Q School, she still managed to win the first round, and also the finals themselves.

At that Q School there might have been two other Korean players. Twelve months later, after Se Ri had won two Majors

and Shaoyang, part of 15 huge cities that are just coming on stream. They average 10,000 golfers, and will have a lot more in 12 months’ time.”

China is already producing elite young golfers. The emergence of such precocious talents as Andy Zhang, Guan Tianlang and Ye Wocheng (see panel) is a sobering illustration. Buoyed by golf’s return to the Olympics, China (an Olympics-obsessed country) is ready to invest in a big way. Zhang Xiaoning, chief of the government-backed China Golf Association, has already announced his intention to deliver a conveyor-belt of young Chinese medalists, in the way the nation has done in disciplines like gymnastics and weight-lifting. The CGA

in her rookie season, there were 15 or 20! Generally, those girls, and the ones that came after, followed Se Ri’s model of complete dedication to golf. Se Ri felt it was her responsibility to her country to play well, and she didn’t want to let anyone down. It was like ‘This is what I’m supposed to do, and there’s no way I’m not going to be successful’.

The American players have social lives, go out on dates or go to parties. The Koreans just don’t do that. They don’t have many hobbies: they spend all day working on their game, all night thinking about what they will practise the next day. In some ways this makes my job easier: utter focus and hard work is a compelling recipe for success.

However, there is a downside.

‘We can effectively see inside the brains of these kids, and see how they are using cognitive thought...’

Ye Wocheng walks with coach David Watson.

has recently invested US$82m in a national golf training centre in Shandong Province and has teamed up with HSBC to create junior events and get golf into schools. It has even enlisted Greg Norman to develop its national team.

China’s best-known resort, Mission Hills,

You can have a really good day of practice, finishing at 6pm.

But if there are still two hours of daylight, they feel obligated to stay and practise until the sun goes down in case someone thinks they are not working hard enough. So they get mentally and physically tired, they start missing shots and they start

is playing its part by waiving green fees to under 16s on three of its courses, and staging its own junior golf tour.

And even with juniors, the tuition in China is cutting-edge; be it governmentfunded initiatives or the growing numbers of private academies. Webb’s own golf

tweaking things. Then they eat at 11pm, don’t sleep well, and are not fresh for the next day’s work. There’s no substitute

school, the Palm Springs Academy at Shenzen, works with 250 golfers, aged four to 18. He works with a system rejoicing in the name of Performance Targeted Neurological Remapping. “We don’t teach golf the way it’s typically taught,” he says. “We work on the swing like an engineer would work on a malfunctioning production line. They slow the line down, correct it, and speed it back up to full efficiency. It’s coaching in slow motion, almost like golf tai chi. As well as technique, we measure both brain and heart activity. We can effectively see inside the brains of these kids, how they are using cognitive thought, how well they visualise. The parents love it because we can quantify and qualify results.”

A testament to this system – and to the growth of grass roots golf in China – is that Webb will be opening new Palm Springs academies at the rate of one every six weeks throughout 2014.

Meanwhile in Korea, the LPGA Tour is all the proof we need of the country’s ability to nurture talent. Korea’s educational system is flexible enough to allow full-time golf for juniors – from a very young age. “Once it’s decided a child will make golf their career, their parents treat the game in the same way they would going to school or doing a

for hard work, but you can cost yourself performance because you are so tired. There is perhaps a perception that Korean girls are better at dealing with pressure. I’m not sure that’s true. An interesting angle is how insecure a lot of them are about their English. I have seen girls who are close to the lead on

the weekend become seriously worried about how their interview would go, should they win. It sounds odd, but it has cost many victories.

They win in Korea, but don’t pull it through in the US as much as they could. For these girls, English lessons could help as much as golf lessons.

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GOLFING SCENE

job,” Kang reveals. “The Korean coaching system is different to other countries because Korean youngsters spend the whole day training for golf. In many cases, golf ends up replacing school.”

The Golf Training Centre where Kang currently works for Bann Lynch Golf – Shin An – shows just how different things can be in Korea. “Because the kids practise all day, the centre actually offers boarding,” Kang adds. “If their parents are busy, they simply drop their kids off at the range. There are more than 100 rooms available at a cost of up to US$5,000 per month, a price that includes meals, practice balls, lessons, access to the short- game course, and golf fitness classes.

CULTURAL DRIVERS The spurt in Asian grass roots golf is underpinned by an absolute willingness to pay the price of success. A huge part of both Korean and Chinese culture, it begins with mum and dad.

“When I came here I realised the parents were different from the western model,” says David Watson.

“Essentially, they set out a goal for their child, and then pretty much dedicate their whole life to their child’s career.

“I began working with a seven year old, Sui Xiang. Her father was so focused on her golf he gave up his job to pursue her

Shenzhen junior team receive guidance.

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career. After she won the 2011 Junior World Championships, he became the model other parents followed.”

We can also take paying the price of success literally. It has been estimated that for a Korean family to fund their child’s golfing development, they will need to find around US$825,000.

“In China a typical round of golf for juniors costs 700 Renminbi (US$115),” says Webb. “Club membership is around US$66,000. In an average year, parents will outlay around US$8,000 on golf, US$12,000 on lessons and US$3,000 on equipment. They will take their kids to tournaments across China twice a month, which adds up to another US$6,500 for the year.

“Then there is international travel; almost all these kids go to the US in the summer. You are looking at US$33,000 a year, before you even consider club membership fees.”

Parents then ensure their own commitment is matched by their child’s.

The tough love they exhibit plays a role here – but so does the extraordinary work ethic, endemic to both countries.

“Korean juniors practise 10-12 hours per day,” says Kang. “There is a competitive element to how hard they work on their games through the freezing winters and boiling hot summers. It’s accepted it’s through the competition in those tough

environments that players become stronger mentally and physically.”

In China it’s a similar story. Watson reveals a typical day with Ye Wocheng can mean anything from three to 10 hours working on his game. Webb believes Chinese parents tend to send their children down one of two paths.

“The first is a scattergun approach.

The parents put their children through ballet, maths, golf, everything. Two years ago, I had a one-hour lesson on a Sunday with a nine year old, and she suddenly burst into tears. I discovered this lesson was taking up the last free, unscheduled hour she had in the week. The second is golf-specific. At some schools, like in Guangzhou, there are about 30 kids who go straight from school to the range, bringing fast food and homework with them. They stay at the range till 10pm; and do about 20 hours a week.”

Aside issues like commitment, Asians are, it seems, well adapted to golf – a theme supported by 14-year-old Guan Tianlang’s extraordinarily self-possessed 2013 Masters performance. In making the cut (and shooting no worse than a bogey in 72 holes) he prompted playing partner Gary Player to gush: “That was the most impressive thing I’ve seen in my 60 years in professional golf.”

“Guan has an amazingly high panic threshold,” adds coach Webb. “Nothing rushes him: you can’t get a fast response out of him. And although Guan is an exceptional player, those qualities are not that unusual in China. But again, you have to look at the country‘s culture. We perform to the level that is expected of us, and this is what Chinese parents expect of their children. It’s the culture they grow up in. They don’t question it. What else would they do?”

“Ye (Wocheng) just has unbelievable poise,” echoes his coach, Watson.

“Without a club in his hands, he is a young boy. With a club, he looks like he’s been on the course for 10 years.

His mental skill, his focus, is different to anyone else I’ve taught – though a lot of these kids are very focused on what they want. I think that filters through from

CHILD’S PLAY The five who made history before reaching adulthood.

19 years and 11 months INBEE PARK (KOREA) Aged just 19, the youngest-ever winner of the US Open, when she won in 2008 at Interlachan.

European Tour stars are revered in Asia.

the firm direction given by the parents.”

As for Korea, Inbee Park’s nerveless march to three Majors in 2013 appears to deliver more of the same. “Korean traditional national characteristics are steadiness and having strong will,” adds Kang. “We also have a very high competitive spirit. We want to win in every competition. Our ladies may have smaller frames than many in the West, but they train hard on mental strength, strategy and tactics to achieve results.”

THE FUTURE In 2013, Inbee became the first golfer since Ben Hogan in 1953 to win the year’s first three Majors. In taking over the mantle of Se Ri, she confirmed that Korea’s strength in women’s golf is, if anything, intensifying. The women’s game has certainly stolen a march on the men’s in Korea, despite the success of 2009 US PGA winner YE Yang and KJ Choi. The imbalance is often attributed to the potentially careerstalling two years of national service men must take before they are 35. Yet Kang believes Korea’s future growth will be its men. “About 15 years ago the KPGA was bigger than the KLPGA. But after Se Ri’s successes, many sponsors turned their marketing to women’s golf. The Korean PGA is still not huge – it had 14 tournaments in

2013 compared to the KLPGA’s 23.

But YE Yang and KJ Choi are heroes in Korea. Korean men are growing in strength on the Korean, Japanese and Asian tours. Korean values of will, competitiveness and hard work will see the men break through soon.”

In China, the country’s future as a golfing superpower seems inevitable – especially now the country has its first Major winner, in 2012 Wegman’s LPGA victor Feng Shansan. “China is the future of golf,” says Bruce Wilkins, who works with prospects Dou Zecheng and Song Tailin. “When this generation of kids come of age, it’s going to be just like the Koreans on the LPGA.” “I’ve seen the number of kids playing golf double,” says Watson. “Companies like Nike and HSBC have got involved, hooking into more and more junior programs. The next stage for China is to develop a male Major winner, and qualify for the Olympics. It’s a big ask, but this country just doesn’t have a can’t-do attitude. It has a can-do and want-to-do… in all the sports they play.”

“China won’t stop,” adds Webb.

“It’s like the traffic. We don’t have gridlock here; somehow, everyone keeps moving. It doesn’t matter what boundaries or inefficiencies are in front of the Chinese: they just keep finding ways to go around things.”

14 years and 10 months JASON HAK (HONG KONG) The youngest player ever to make a cut on the European Tour: achieved at the 2008 Hong Kong Open.

14 years and six months GUAN TIANLANG (CHINA) Youngest player to play in the Masters, which he did in 2013.

Despite a two-shot penalty made the cut.

14 years and six months ANDY ZHANG (CHINA) Youngest player ever to compete in the US Open, when he played at the Olympic Club in 2012.

12 years and eight months YE WOCHENG (CHINA) The youngest player ever to compete on the European Tour, when he teed it up in the 2013 China Open.

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Munson Savours Maiden Win at PGM CCM Rahman Putra Championship Win propels the American up the ADT Order Of Merit

The Champ, Brett Munson.

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merican Brett Munson revelled in delight when he claimed his breakthrough win on the Asian Development Tour (ADT) with a final round four-under-par 68 at the PGM CCM Rahman Putra Championship.

Munson, who is only playing in his second event on the ADT, compiled a total 42 GOLF ASIA

Pavit Tangkamolplasert of Thailand.

score of eight-under-par 208 for a one-shot victory over Thai brothers, Annop and Pavit Tangkamolprasert, at the 54-hole RM200, 000 (approximately US$65,000) ADT event. Pavit, who held a share of the second round lead, signed for a closing 71 while Annop ended his campaign with a 69 at the Kelab Rahman Putra Malaysia.

Malaysia’s Ben Leong, a one-time winner on the premier Asian Tour, emerged as the best local player after battling to a 69 to share fourth place with Japan’s Konozuke Nakazato on matching 210s at the second event of the 2014 ADT season.

Canadian David Rose, Sweden’s

Lam Zhiqun of Singapore.

Malcolm Kokocinski and past ADT champion Mitsuhiko Hashizume of Japan finished a further shot back on tied-sixth place after posting rounds of 69, 71 and 71, respectively.

Munson, who fired five birdies against a lone bogey, received a welcome boost coming to Asia after sealing the deal at the PGM CCM Rahman Putra Championship in Malaysia. “I am overwhelmed with joy right now. It has been a while since I last won. This is really amazing,” said the 27-year-old, who received the coveted Jack Nicklaus award as the top Division II golfer for the 20092010 season on the eGolf professional Tour back in the United States.

My putting was great today. I played solid and I hit a lot of fairways too. I told myself to stay positive and stick to my fundamentals. Overall, it has been a great experience this week.

Hopefully I can continue to do better this season,” added Munson.

Munson took home the winner’s prize purse of US$10,670, which propelled him to second on the ADT Order of Merit led

by Thailand’s Wisut Artjanawat. He also received six Official World Golf Ranking (OWGR) points courtesy of his victory.

The top six players and ties will also earn points based on a sliding scale.

“I feel that there are a lot of opportunities here in Asia. That’s why I came all the way here from the United States. It has been really enjoyable playing on the ADT even though this is only my second event.

The tournaments are very well-organised.

I haven’t really settled down in Asia yet but I am planning to find a place in Hua Hin, Thailand for this year just to work on my game and to get use to everything here. The Asian Tour is one of the better Tours around so hopefully I can work my way up from the ADT,” said Munson.

This season, the top five players on the final ADT Order of Merit rankings will secure Asian Tour cards for 2015.

The ADT, which was launched in 2010 with five tournaments before growing to eight in 2011, 13 in 2012 and a record 16 in the 2013 season, has proved to be a successful platform for upcoming players to gain entry into the region’s premier Tour.

The Asian Development Tour Launched in 2010 with the aim of creating a career pathway for professional golfers in Asia and sanctioned by the Asian Tour, the Asian Development Tour will ultimately create a new playing platform for emerging stars from across Asia and around the world. Through the Asian Tour Qualifying School, players will qualify for the Asian Development Tour and enjoy the opportunity to hone their games and talent through a secondary circuit in Asia.

Designed in the same structure as the Web.com Tour in America and European Challenge Tour, the Asian Development Tour is a stepping stone to the Asian Tour and the exciting world of international golf.

The Asian Development Tour has been structured to ensure the best opportunities for its members. The leading five players on the Asian Development Tour will earn coveted Asian Tour cards for the following season, ensuring a proper career pathway for aspiring professionals. All ADT events receive Official World Golf Ranking points.

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EurAsia Cup Trophy Showcases Best Of Malaysian Craftsmanship Trophy took two months to create and weighs over six kilograms

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IMAGES © GOLF MALAYSIA

un Ahmad Sarji Abdul Hamid, Chairman of Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM), took the opportunity to explain the rationale behind the creation of the newly unveiled EurAsia Cup trophy to Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak at his office in Putrajaya.

The specially commissioned trophy was produced in Malaysia and designed

by Tun Ahmad Sarji himself with the help of Mior Adlizul Jazmi of Permodalan Nasional Berhad and crafted by Hassan bin Mat Jusoh, a master craftsman at the renowned silversmiths KB Permai Krafperak Kelantan Silver.

Using traditional Malaysian techniques and working almost entirely by hand, it took four expert craftsmen over two months to fashion the stunning trophy. The final sterling silver piece weighs over six kilograms and stands 18 inches tall. Tun Ahmad Sarji also designed the winner’s gold plated medal and the runner-up silverplated medal with the help of Mior Adlizul.

The EurAsia Cup is sanctioned by the Asian Tour and European Tour and the Government of Malaysia has appointed PGM as the local facilitator of the event.

To help boost interest, each ticket is entitled to a free EurAsia Cup team cap.

The EurAsia Cup presented by DRBHICOM took place at Glenmarie Golf and Country Club and placed Team Asia, led by captain Thongchai Jaidee, against a Miguel Angel Jimenez-led Team Europe in a Ryder Cup-style showdown.

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ABOUT DRB-HICOM BERHAD

Pablo Larrazabal.

Thorbjorn Olesen.

Team Asia captain Thongchai Jaidee.

Prayad Marksaeng.

Nicholas Fung.

Team Asia Thongchai Jaidee (Captain, Thailand), Kiradech Aphibarnrat (Thailand), Gaganjeet Bhullar (India), Nicholas Fung (Malaysia), Kim Hyung-sung (Korea,) Anirban Lahiri (India), Prayad Marksaeng (Thailand), Koumei Oda (Japan), Siddikur Rahman (Bangladesh), Hideto Tanihara (Japan).

Team Asia vice-captain Boonchu Ruangkit.

Team Europe Miguel Angel Jimenez (Captain, Spain), Thomas Bjorn (Denmark), Jamie Donaldson (Wales), Victor Dubuisson (France), Gonzalo Fernandez-Castano (Spain), Stephen Gallacher (Scotland), Pablo Larrazabal (Spain), Joost Luiten (Netherlands), Graeme McDowell (N Ireland), Thorbjorn Olesen (Denmark).

DRB-HICOM Berhad (DRB-HICOM) is one of Malaysia’s leading conglomerates with core businesses in the Automotive; Services; and Property, Asset & Construction sectors. With more than 80 active companies in its stable and over 57,000 employees group-wide, DRBHICOM’s aim is to continue adding value and propelling the nation’s development.

In the Automotive sector, DRB-HICOM is involved in the manufacturing, assembly and distribution of passenger and commercial vehicles, including the national motorcycle. In Services, DRBHICOM is involved in various businesses, including concession and financialrelated services. In Property, Asset & Construction, DRB-HICOM is involved in residential and commercial developments.

About Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) Professional Golf of Malaysia (PGM) is a Company Limited by Guarantee, registered on 5th August 2010 in Malaysia.

As a non-profit organisation, PGM’s objectives are to promote the sport of golf and to contribute towards its enjoyment and growth. To conduct and/or coordinate training on golf-related courses in order to enhance the playing capabilities and skills of professional golfers, as well as to promote and/or conduct a golf Tour or events as a means to hone their skills and to elevate the standards of the professional golfers in Malaysia.

PGM provides a platform for Malaysia’s professional golfers to enable them to focus on playing while PGM shoulders the responsibility of arranging and financing these tournaments. To achieve these objectives, PGM organises a series of golf tournaments on an annual basis. For the year 2012, PGM hosted 20 tournaments offering RM3 million in prize money, seven of which were co-sanctioned with the Asian Development Tour. The schedule for 2013 features 22 tournaments offering prize money of over RM4 million, 10 of which are co-sanctioned with the Asian Development Tour and three with the ASEAN Tour. The expansion of the Tour on an annual basis and the increased prize money is an indicator of its vibrant growth year-on-year.

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The new SM5 wedges are available in Tour Chrome (right), Gold Nickel (left) or Raw Black finishes... with six different sole grinds.

Titleist Vokey SM5 Wedges P

GA Tour players started testing Titleist’s new Vokey wedges last October – and since March they became available to the public.

The Spin Milled 5 (SM5) wedges feature new ‘TX3’ grooves, which the company suggests in the 46˚ to 54˚ models are deeper and narrower, as well as seven per cent larger in volume.

It means the larger grooves can channel away more grass, sand and debris from non-fairway lies, while the groove edges can grip the ball more effectively from the rough, reducing the 46 GOLF ASIA

risk of ‘flyers’ when grass is trapped between clubface and ball.

Titleist says most players will experience up to 500rpm of additional spin on full shots from the rough with the lower-lofted SM5 wedges. TX3 grooves in the 56º to 62º lofts maintain the same width as the previous wedges, but are deeper, with seven per cent more volume, for up to 400rpm more spin than the SM4s.

“We received a lot of feedback from Tour players regarding ‘flyers’,” said Aaron Dill, who works on the Titleist Tour

van, building and grinding wedges for PGA Tour players.

“They don’t want them. On Tour these guys have to aim to a lot of small targets.

They need to trust their ball will travel the exact distance they need it to, even from a tough lie in the rough.

“The deep and narrow TX3 groove helps push the grass down better, which gives you that increased edge radius contact for more spin and consistent distance.”

Available in lofts of 46º to 62º (two degree increments) and six Tour-inspired sole grinds. www.vokey.com

Bob Vokey On His Design What were the challenges in coming up with these new wedges?

It wasn’t easy as we sold over 800,000 wedges last year! But we found that Tour players wanted to get a more consistent flight out of the rough and first cut. We gave this challenge to our engineers and they came up with 30 different configurations. We took 16 different versions out on Tour and to the test centre. The configuration you see in the SM5 delivered the most spin and best distance control.

They look a little different, too.

The guys on Tour felt the SM4s were a little long from heel to toe in the 46-50°.

So we shortened it up, made it a little more compact. We also moved more material into the sole, made it wider, which enhances playability.

What Bob Vokey doesn’t know about wedges probably isn’t worth knowing.

You say they’re even more versatile...

Each of the sole grinds is available in

more lofts, but there have been other small tweaks. I’m really excited about amateurs trying the K-grind, inspired by Tom Kite and used by Adam Scott and Jason Dufner to win Majors last year. It’s got a wide sole with some added camber that will suit a wide range of players.

How important is being wedge fitted?

So important! Pitching wedges used to be 50°. But while the SW stayed at 56°, the pitching wedge moved down to 46°. All of a sudden there’s a gap of 10 degrees. I recommend a gap of four degrees. Tour players like six degrees so they can put an extra long game club in. Amateurs don’t have the clubhead speed to hit long irons. But with practice, they can hit any shot as good as a pro from 100 yards and in.

It doesn’t take clubhead speed, just proper technique and matching the wedge to your swing.

FOUR REASONS THE NEW VOKEY WEDGES ARE SPECIAL...

1

LOFT/BOUNCE COMBINATIONS They are available in 21 different loft/bounce/ grind combinations and six Tour-inspired sole grinds, appropriately slotted into low, mid and high bounce categories to fit all swing types, shot-making styles and shortgame conditions.

2

FINISHES The new, brighter Tour Chrome has a dark blast face for better contrast and framing; Gold Nickel aids rust prevention and durability; Raw Black will rust during the course of play.

Vokey’s popular personalisation and custom options have also been expanded.

3

SOLE GRINDS The six Tour-inspired sole grinds are derived from Vokey’s work with top players. The S grind, for example, has a full sole with a straight trailing edge and moderate heel relief. It was inspired by Steve Stricker, who likes to play his wedges in a square position with the shaft leaning away from the target.

4

TOUR VALIDATION Jordan Spieth is one of more than 30 players who have already switched to the new wedges. He made his 2014 PGA Tour debut with two in the bag, finishing runner-up at the Hyundai Tournament of Champions. “I’m looking for a lot of versatility. I’m looking to be able to hit it high, hit it low, hit shots that are going to spin back or drop and stop.”

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The Drivers Of The Year Do hold off your purchase until you’ve read our verdict on 28 new models

BY JOEL TADMAN • IMAGES TOM CRITCHELL/ANGUS MURRAY

48 GOLF ASIA

O

ur annual drivers test is always keenly anticipated – but we can’t remember one quite as exciting as this year’s.

Technology has evolved so quickly in the last 12 months that almost every manufacturer has at least one totally new driver in their line-up.

If you’ve been following our launch coverage over the past six months, you’ll have seen the path manufacturers are going down.

Funky crown designs are, for the most part, a thing of the past.

Adjustability is now taking new forms and club faces are hotter and more

forgiving than they’ve ever been.

Trust us when we say we were as excited as you to find out which models were longest and straightest.

We can’t remember a bigger year in the most important product category for golf. Callaway has resurrected its Big Bertha in a revolutionary way. TaylorMade’s SLDR has gone down a storm on Tour, and its ‘loft up’ message is being widely adopted.

Meanwhile, Ping, Nike, Mizuno, Adams, Cobra, Wilson, Benross, Yonex and Cleveland all have new launches.

Adjustability. Low spin. Fitting.

More loft. These are the buzzwords for all these products in 2014. Clubfitters now have so many options when it comes to finding the best driver for your game, you’d be crazy not to take advantage of the offer.

But where do you begin your search for a new big dog? Well, we think this is a pretty good place.

We tested 28* of the latest models at The Belfry, with a range of club golfers and a professional.

Over the page we’ll explain how we did this year’s test – before counting down to the drivers of the year.

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Many a ball was hit to discover each club’s true performance.

HOW WE TESTED THEM We’ve made some additional improvements to the way we will test equipment in 2014.

To make the verdicts more relevant to you, we have introduced readers back into our testing panel (see right).

Along with Equipment Editor Joel Tadman, we have continued to enlist the feedback of pro James Ridyard from the Bedford Golf Club. James is an expert in the laws of ball flight and has no brand affiliation, ensuring he is able to offer honest and uncompromised club advice.

For our driver trial, testing took place over two days in one of The Belfry’s custom-fit bays using a Trackman launch monitor.

Each tester was given balls to warm up with before testing started and was allocated as much time as they needed to test the clubs. They hit as many balls as they felt were required to provide a fair representation of the club’s performance before we recorded the statistics. The 50 GOLF ASIA

testers then gave their feedback.

THE RANKING PROCESS We based our rankings on opinion, feel and facts. For opinion we looked at three areas the manufacturers value when developing the club. Cosmetics may not necessarily affect performance, but can make a dramatic difference to the confidence we feel when we look down at address. They can also influence our ability to aim the face. Feel is similarly subjective, but we all instinctively know the sensation we want at impact. Forgiveness is, again, hard to quantify. Only the user knows how well the club has rescued a poor strike. But it’s a vital part of a club’s DNA. Our testers were asked to rate each club out of 10.

As for facts, we wanted to compare the performance of each driver fairly. Golfers of different abilities are better suited to one driver over another, so rather than comparing the performance of the drivers

from person to person, we used our performance stat (see right) to rank each driver against the player’s best drive of the day using a sliding scale. That way, clubs are ranked against each other for each individual. We also recorded and published the average distance and dispersion of every driver for each tester.

We not only invited all the major manufacturers to be involved in our test, but on this occasion we gave

The Belfry even managed to arrange the weather for us.

Club fitters were invited to attend before testing began.

Steve finds out which model was the longest for him.

MEET THE TESTERS James Ridyard

them all the opportunity to come along with a technical rep and fit our team before testing commenced.

James – a fully-qualified club fitter – was also on hand to fit the appropriate loft, lie and shaft spec to each tester, as well as himself where applicable, to ensure the spec of each model tested was as well-matched as possible to each tester based on their swing characteristics and what they currently use and prefer.

Manufacturers supplied us with an array of lofts and shafts for each 2014 model they wished to appear. We limited the number of models to two per brand, but Tour versions did not count as one model alone.

This test aims to provide you with a guide to the strengths and weaknesses of each club, so you can decide which is likely to suit your game or offer the best value. But if you’re thinking of making a purchase, get properly fitted. This will ensure the driver is right for you.

PERFORMANCE STAT This stat has been given double the weighting over the subjective categories.

It is essentially a total driving statistic for each club, taking into account distance, dispersion and the limitations and consistent misses of each player.

For example, if James’ longest drive of the day was 296 yards, that ball, finishing on target, would represent his potential. We appreciate that shots finishing left of the target (for a right hander) tend to travel further, so any shots finishing further than five yards left were discounted when formulating a player’s potential.

Any shots finishing within the closest range on the sliding scale scored the maximum score of 10, second closest scored nine and so on. *Please note that some drivers featured in this test are only available in certain markets

Handicap: Pro Longest carry: 284 yards Clubhead speed: 112mph Current driver: TaylorMade R11 TP, 9.5° Driving traits: Long and accurate with a fast swing speed.

Joel Tadman Handicap: Three Longest carry: 268 yards Clubhead speed: 110mph Current driver: Ping Anser, 9.5° Driving traits: Fairly accurate, struggles with a block to the right. Likes to draw the ball.

Stephen Kidd Handicap: 10 Longest carry: 267 yards Clubhead speed: 108mph Current driver: TaylorMade SLDR, 10.5° Driving traits: Long but with inconsistent face control at times.

Steve Milnes Handicap: 18 Longest carry: 228 yards Clubhead speed: 92mph Current driver: Callaway X Hot, 10.5° Driving traits: Swings down and across the ball with limited speed, launching the ball low with high spin.

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Dunlop DP1 Lofts: 10.5° only Contact: www.sportsdirect.com Tech: “Adaptive Drive” provides five face angle settings. Interchangeable 10g and 3g weights let you alter the draw/fade bias.

What we said... JR: “I like headshape and the solid single alignment line really works. The textured effect on the crown is odd but it felt solid and distance was decent.”JT: “It was accurate. The new shaft is more stable than last year's. Having the heavier weight in the

heel reduced my miss to the right.” SK: “It flies from the middle but curves a lot on mis-hits.

The adjustability isn’t obvious, I had to tinker for a while to find my best setting. SM: “The pattern on the crown is off putting. It wasn’t overly powerful; a 12° head would get more out of my action.”

Pros: Affordable adjustability. Solid feel.

Cons: Textured crown will divide opinion.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 6 Feel: 6.5 Sound: 7 Forgiveness: 7 Performance: 6.5 Rating: ++++++++++

John Letters Masters Model Lofts: 8°, 9°, 10°, 11° Contact: www.johnletters.com Tech: Features a plasma-welded, Beta Ti face and “Feel Cell” sole bar for explosive distance. Sits open by one degree.

What we said... JR: “A very solid driver, in part due to the high-spec Aldila RIP shaft, but also a head that’s well balanced and inviting to hit.”JT: “I like the look, but the loud, high-pitched sound is off putting. It's not overly forgiving and feels hard, but

sends the ball out there.” SK: “It’s got a great look – simple and classic. The shaft feels long and it would have been nice to be able to tweak the loft.” SM: “Surprisingly forgiving for a better player model. The glossy finish appeals to me; there's no distractions. Sounds a bit tinny though.”

Pros: Clean look. Accurate. Good value.

Cons: No adjustability and unique sound.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 8 Feel: 6.5 Sound: 6 Forgiveness: 6.5 Performance: 7 Rating: ++++++++++

MD Golf Superfit Lofts: 9-12° adjustable Contact: www.mdgolf.co.uk Tech: A tungsten screw in the sole lowers the CG for a more optimum launch and spin. Has a Mitsubishi Rayon Javln FX shaft.

What we said... JR: “The triangular look to the head wasn’t appealing, nor was the sound. The sole design is really cool and the shaft had some pop to it.” JT: “Adjusting down to 10° helped get the best flight. It’s a strange sensation at impact with a hollow, tinny sound,

but it feels powerful. I really like the tacky grip.”

SK: “The grip feels really nice, as does the shaft.

The sound is a bit weird and it was by no means the longest. But it performed well considering the price.”

SM: “The shape puts loads of mass behind the ball. It feels powerful and well balanced.”

Pros: Premium finish and shaft. Super value.

Cons: Odd sound and not the longest.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 7 Feel: 7 Sound: 6 Forgiveness: 6.5 Performance: 7.5 Rating: ++++++++++

Lynx Boom Boom 3 Lofts: 7.5°, 9°, 10.5°, 12.5° Contact: www.lynxgolf.co.uk Tech: Lynx's pressurised “hot gas” injection technology has been combined with new Effective Energy Transfer Technology (EET) to enhance distance and forgiveness.

What we said... JR: “A unique sounding golf club that goes miles. Nice compact head, but the finish lacks class. Shaft tech is a touch dated. Not sure it justifies the price tag.” JT: “Underwhelmed by the look, but the shape is

perfect and it felt hot off the face. A big step up for Lynx.” SK: “Distance was consistently long, but I lost more than I wanted when I didn't catch it, despite maintaining decent feel.” SM: “The shaft feels long, I had to grip down to gain control. Lacked forgiveness and appeal.”

Pros: Long – the technology works.

Cons: Lacks forgiveness and adjustability.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 7 Feel: 7 Sound: 6 Forgiveness: 7 Performance: 7.5 Rating: ++++++++++ 52 GOLF ASIA

Cleveland 588 Custom Lofts: 9°, 10.5° adjustable Contact: www.clevelandgolf.com Tech: A variable thickness “MAX COR” face boosts ball speeds away from the sweetspot.

Sole weight, loft, lie and face angle are all adjustable. Now has a 460cc clubhead.

What we said... JR: “The classic look stands out from the more common shapes. A very light feeling shaft increased speed and produced good distance.” JT: “The black with gold trim really works. The shaft feels too

long and the grip too thin – both contributing to a lack of control. Felt like it came off the face fast.” SK: “It wasn’t overly forgiving, but I like the adjustability; adding 0.75°of loft got me 8 more yards!” SM: “The adjustability reduced my curve and upped my launch.

Impressive performance.”

Pros: Great look, feel and lots to adjust.

Cons: Stock shaft a touch weak. Not long.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 7.5 Feel: 7 Sound: 7.5 Forgiveness: 7 Performance: 7 Rating: ++++++++++

Wilson FG Tour M3 Lofts: 8.5-11.5° adjustable Contact: www.wilsonstaff.com Tech: A variable thickness face boosts forgiveness. “Right Light” technology features in the head along with adjustable 3g, 7g or 11g sole weights. Aldila RIP Phenom shaft.

What we said... JR: “The heavier of the two stock shafts (60g) helped keep the flight down.

It looks cheap, but the shape is nice; the very deep face should appeal to better players.”JT: “It really flies out of the middle (I hit one of my

longest drives with it) but the look and sound isn’t my taste.” SK: “The 3g weight helped keep the spin down. It feels superb out of the middle, I could hardly miss; it was my straightest club.” SM: “The 11g weight helped increase my launch and I didn’t notice the extra weight in the head.”

Pros: Forgiving and long. Adjustability works.

Cons: Finish lacks class. Odd impact sound.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 7 Feel: 8 Sound: 7 Forgiveness: 8 Performance: 7.5 Rating: ++++++++++

Yonex XP Lofts: 9°, 10.5°, 12° adjustable Contact: www.yonex.com Tech: A heavier head increases ball speeds, counteracted by a heavy-ended grip to reduce swing weight. Adjustable loft by 1.5°.

What we said... JR: “Visually there’s a lot going on, I’m not a fan. The head is a good weight, I thought a lot of the shots would be better than they were. Shaft felt a little weak.”

JT: “I got a really strong and stable flight. I like the look, it offers plenty of shelf appeal but I

need a stiffer shaft. Currently there’s no x-stiff option available.” SK: “The colours work well and it’s forgiving too. A penetrating flight, low spin with lots of run.”

SM: “The draw bias of the head helped reduce my miss to the right. The look and weight feels spot on, very well balanced.”

Pros: Looks good and feels powerful.

Cons: Not as long as it feels at times.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 7.5 Feel: 8.5 Sound: 7 Forgiveness: 8 Performance: 7 Rating: ++++++++++

Tour Edge Exotics XCG7/Beta Lofts: 8.5-12° adjustable Contact: www.touredge.com Tech: Variable face “Power Grid” boosts forgiveness. Eight-way adjustable loft system.

Low-spinning 440cc Beta version.

What we said... JR: “The Beta feels faster off the face with a lower flight. I like the head shape and finish, it frames the ball nicely. It’s powerful, but with forgiveness thrown in.” JT: “The shaft in the standard model feels way too long, I had to grip down a lot to gain

control of the face. Lovely buttery feel and flawless matt grey look.” SK: “Felt stable with a hot face, matt finish is smart. Shaft is impressive, really kicking through impact.”

SM: “Low flight even with the standard set at 12°. Both heads seem to be better suited to higher swing speeds.”

Pros: Classy look, great feel and value.

Cons: Long stock shaft reduces control.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 8 Feel: 8 Sound: 7.5 Forgiveness: 8 Performance: 7 Rating: ++++++++++ GOLF ASIA 53

GOLFING GEARGUIDE

Benross RIP/HOT/MAX Speed 2 Lofts: 10°/12°/ 14° Contact: www.benrossgolf.com Tech: Minor head tweaks and grip and shaft upgrades for 2014. RIP Speed 2 is 450cc aimed at the better player with fast swings.

What we said... JR: “I like the head shape, deep face and the matt finish. The shaft feels a touch soft and the ball went a little high, but overall it performed well.” JT: “The pearshaped head and matt finish will appeal to better players. It’s workable, but straight

when it needs to be. Would have been nice to add some loft to strengthen the flight.”

SK: “Sets up great, feels solid across the face. Stock shaft is a real plus at this price point.” SM: “My 12° Hot Speed feels light and easy to swing. Bad strikes held their line and I’m a fan of the shape.”

Pros: Clean look, distance and forgiveness.

Cons: No option to fine tune your flight.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 8 Feel: 7.5 Sound: 7 Forgiveness: 7.5 Performance: 8 Rating: ++++++++++

Adams XTD Lofts: 9°, 10.5°, 12° adjustable Contact: www.adamsgolf.com Tech: First driver from Adams to feature its “Cut-Through Velocity Slot” to increase ball speeds. Progressive thickness face, loft and lie can be adjusted up to 1.5° via the hosel.

What we said... JR: “Solid club, nice matt grey finish. Had to adjust right down to 7.5° to get the longest flight.” JT: “The face looks rounded and the head large. Looking at the large slot is odd at first, but the sweetspot is

one of the hottest on test. Soft but explosive.”

SK: “Felt solid on different strike points. Not a fan of the slot, but like the matt finish. Sounds great and is powerful out of the middle.”

SM: “Used a lower loft than usual to get the best from it. Not a looker, but long and very forgiving.”

Pros: A high-launching distance machine.

Cons: Size and design is unwieldy to look at.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 7 Feel: 8 Sound: 8 Forgiveness: 8 Performance: 7.5 Rating: ++++++++++

Cobra BiO CELL/BiO CELL+ Lofts: 9-12° adjustable. Pro version 8-11° adjustable Contact: www.cobragolf.com Tech: 50 per cent lower CG than last year’s model. Better player BiO CELL+ is 440cc. Loft can be adjusted without affecting face angle via SmartPad. Comes in five colours.

What we said... JR: “Really like this. Nicelyshaped head, very stable shaft and hot off the face. Excellent carry numbers.” JT: “I really don’t like the look of the + version but I like the size and shape and can’t fault

performance. Really tight dispersion numbers with good distance.” SK: “The heavy head meant I could give it a good smack without losing control. Easy to line up at address. Love the blue version.” SM: “Instantly liked the feel. Bad strikes didn’t curve the ball too much. Very accurate.”

Pros: Long and forgiving. Much improved.

Cons: Still goes high. Look won’t please all.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 7.5 Feel: 8 Sound: 7.5 Forgiveness: 8.5 Performance: 8 Rating: ++++++++++

Titleist 913D2/D3 Lofts: 7.5°, 8.5°, 9.5°, 10.5°, 12° (D2 only) adjustable Contact: www.titleist.com Tech: D2 is the larger model with a slight draw bias. The D3 model has a 445cc head for Tour-inspired workability and distance.

Independent loft and lie adjustment.

What we said... JR: “The D3 feels very stable and nice to hit. It doesn’t feel like it comes off overly fast but I’d feel confident if I had to hit a tight fairway.” JT: “Flawless, classic looks and a powerful feel. Needed the x-stiff shaft to

bring the flight down. Very difficult to hit significantly far off line.” SK: “I don’t like the shiny finish, but what felt like snap hooks stayed pretty straight.” SM: “The upright lie angle (B2) reduced my miss to the right. It made a big difference and felt like a totally different club. Great look, too.”

Pros: Solid feel and difficult to hit off line.

Cons: Tech feels dated next to newest clubs.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 8.5 Feel: 8 Sound: 8 Forgiveness: 8.5 Performance: 7.5 Rating: ++++++++++ 54 GOLF ASIA

Callaway X2 Hot/Pro Lofts: 9°, 10.5°, 13.5°. Pro version 8.5°. Both adjustable Contact: www.callawaygolf.com Tech: Callaway say the X2 Hot is nine yards longer than its predecessor due to the fastest, thinnest and lightest all-titanium face it has ever produced. The sweetspot is also 10 per cent larger for more consistent distances on varying strike patterns. The loft and lie is adjustable via OptiFit hosel. The better-player Pro version is 440cc, offering more workability and comes with an Aldila Tour Green shaft.

What we said... JR: “Typical Callaway design, not to my taste but it will be to many. My Pro model felt light and was effortless to swing. It was a little hard to control initially, but had high ball speeds.

Adjusting the loft down to 7.5° really helped.” JT: “Also had to adjust the 8.5° Pro version to 7.5° for the best flight. This driver lives up to its name, it feels really hot from the centre and pretty good

TEST TEAM’S TWO KEY STATISTICS

James Ridyard Distance: 255 yards Dispersion: 8 yards

Joel Tadman Distance: 256 yards Dispersion: 8 yards

when you don’t catch it too. The compact head of pro version is for consistent strikers only.” SK: “Prefer the standard model but did have to reduce the loft to keep the spin down. A solid driver, very straight and fast off the face.” SM: “The option of draw bias really helped. It feels light but in balance, made it easy to square the face and hit consistently long.”

Pros: Long, but controllable. Lots of settings to reduce your big miss.

Cons: Matt grey is an acquired taste.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 8 Feel: 8.5 Sound: 8.5 Forgiveness: 8.5 Performance: 8 Rating:

++++++++++

Stephen Kidd Distance: 253 yards Dispersion: 7 yards

Steve Milnes Distance: 221 yards Dispersion: 9 yards

Stephen Kidd Distance: 253 yards Dispersion: 5 yards

Steve Milnes Distance: 214 yards Dispersion: 7 yards

TaylorMade JetSpeed Lofts: 9.5°, 10.5°, 13° HL adjustable Contact: www.taylormadegolf.com Tech: The first driver from TaylorMade to feature a “Speed Pocket”, which boosts ball speeds on shots struck low on the face. It has a lower, more forward CG than its predecessor to optimise launch, and a 12-position loft sleeve means loft can be adjusted up or down by up to 1.5°.

What we said... JR: “Even set to 8° it still went pretty high. The head feels too light; I didn’t know where it was in the swing because the stock stiff shaft is light too; not a great combination. But it will help someone with low swing speed. The heavier TP shaft enhanced my performance. I prefer the darker finish to white.” JT: “The look isn’t as classy as SLDR, but I prefer the feel off the face here. Most fast swingers will need to upgrade to the TP shaft but regardless of shaft the face feels really hot. Similar

TEST TEAM’S TWO KEY STATISTICS

James Ridyard Distance: 266 yards Dispersion: 10 yards

flight to SLDR, but needed less loft.”

SK: “The head size will please a wide spectrum of players. It's definitely light, but feels great out of the middle. It’s easy to align and forgiving – a killer combination for accuracy.” SM: “It didn’t feel quite as hot as the SLDR, but it’s easy to swing and goes straight out of the middle as well as around it.”

Pros: Light feel and hot face is perfect for mid-low swing speeds. Cons: Fast swingers likely to need a shaft upgrade.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 8 Feel: 8.5 Sound: 8.5 Forgiveness: 8.5 Performance: 8 Rating:

++++++++++ Joel Tadman Distance: 264 yards Dispersion: 9 yards

GOLF ASIA 55

GOLFING GEARGU GEARGUIDE

Ping G25 Lofts: 8.5°, 9.5°, 10.5°, 12° adjustable Contact: www.ping.com Tech: Large, forgiving head, ‘Trajectory Tuning Technology’ and a speedgenerating shaft. Each loft can be tweaked by half-a-degree up or down.

The clubface is larger and the crown is thinner than last year’s G20 and has the highest MOI and lowest centre of gravity of any current Ping driver.

What we said... JR: “The head design is meaty with a classy finish. It looks more lofted than it is and sounds powerful. The peak height was high, but I was able to keep the spin down. Might be improved by having the i25 alignment aid. All the shaft offerings are strong performers.” JT: “The G25 goes to show that with the right loft and shaft, better players can get something out of a ‘mass market’ model.

With the PWR X stiff tour shaft (no upcharge) I got a really strong, rainbow

TEST TEAM’S TWO KEY STATISTICS

James Ridyard Distance: 270 yards Dispersion: 7 yards

Joel Tadman Distance: 252 yards Dispersion: 4 yards

flight, launching high with low spin. The clubhead is huge, which most club golfers will love.” SK: “I was surprised to get the longest carries with 11° of loft. It’s got a confidence- inspiring look and solid feel across the face; a great all-round package.” SM: “Not the nicest sound, but everything else is easy to like. High-launch head suited my downward attack angle.”

Pros: Size boosts confidence. Premium finish. Forgiving.

Cons: Look may put off good players.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 8 Feel: 9 Sound: 8 Forgiveness: 9.5 Performance: 8 Rating:

++++++++++

Stephen Kidd Distance: 246 yards Dispersion: 10 yards

Steve Milnes Distance: 214 yards Dispersion: 12 yards

Stephen Kidd Distance: 251 yards Dispersion: 12 yards

Steve Milnes Distance: 215 yards Dispersion: 8 yards

Mizuno JPX EZ Lofts: 9.5°, 10.5°, 12° adjustable Contact: golf.mizunoeurope.com Tech: ‘QuickSwitch’ adjustability allows users to open or close the face up to 2° and adjust the loft 1.5° up or down. The driver also boasts a low-profile aerodynamic head design and 0.6mm ‘Rebound Crown’, where the head expands at impact to produce more of a spring-like effect from a larger area on the clubface.

What we said... JR: “Classic-looking head that seems to set up just a little closed in neutral. Very strong feel and sound.

Distance and dispersion was excellent once I’d adjusted the face slightly open.

Really impressive.”

JT: “The surprise package of the test for me. After upping the loft one click I could hardly miss. The dispersion was tight and the distance was up there with the rest. I love the look, too; the white grooves in the heel and toe frame the ball nicely. The only

TEST TEAM’S TWO KEY STATISTICS 56 GOLF ASIA

James Ridyard Distance: 274 yards Dispersion: 5 yards

thing I disliked was the sound – it was a bit overpowering.” SK: “Looks great, impressive forgiveness and the shaft is a real plus. Flight was a little high, but balls still went long and straight.”

SM: “A great feel off the face and one of my highest-launching drivers, which made distance easier to come by. One of my favourite drivers on test.”

Pros: Classy, clean look with a hot-feeling face. Superb overall package.

Cons: Not the most workable driver.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 9 Feel: 8.5 Sound: 8 Forgiveness: 8.5 Performance: 8.5 Rating:

++++++++++ Joel Tadman Distance: 260 yards Dispersion: 5 yards

Ping i25

Adjustable, better-player model with forgiveness and an effective alignment aid Lofts: 8.5°, 9.5°, 10.5° adjustable Contact: www.ping.com Tech: Aimed at the better player with high swing speeds. A racing stripe on the crown helps align the face and take the club away on the correct path. Two tungsten weights in the rear of the sole raise MOI and move the CG low and back. The clubface has variable thicknesses to deliver high ball speeds from a larger area. Ping’s PWR shafts come in three different weights and stiffness profiles without changing swingweight.

Each loft is adjustable by 0.5° up or down.

What we said... JR: “The stripes on the top certainly make alignment easier. You get the

TEST TEAM’S TWO KEY STATISTICS

James Ridyard Distance: 279 yards Dispersion: 8 yards

same low-spin performance as the old Anser, but in a more forgiving head. This is an exceptional driver with very few weaknesses.”

JT: “The sole looks similar to the i20 and it performs in a similar manner. With the i25, alignment is significantly easier thanks to the stripe. It’s subtle enough not to dominate your focus, but effectively helps aim the face. Having the adjustability we didn’t have in the i20 is an option everyone will enjoy – being able to add 0.5° to my 9.5° head helped get four more yards.

Feels a touch harder than other top performers, but the head shape is flawless.” SK: “The stripe works for me, too. The head feels heavy, which I like, but powerful too and I got a penetrating

Joel Tadman Distance: 257 yards Dispersion: 5 yards

flight with lots of run.” SM: “Certainly not as forgiving as the G25 for me, but there’s still plenty on offer. Switching to the lighter 55g shaft didn’t alter the overall feel of the club.”

Pros: Crown design has genuine performance benefit. Long, low-spinning driver with forgiveness too – a winning combination.

Cons: Not best suited to slow swingers.

Stephen Kidd Distance: 251 yards Dispersion: 9 yards

THE NUMBERS Looks: 9 Feel: 8.5 Sound: 8.5 Forgiveness: 9 Performance: 9 Rating:

++++++++++ Steve Milnes Distance: 214 yards Dispersion: 8 yards GOLF ASIA 57

GOLFING GEARGUIDE

Nike VRS Covert 2.0

Nike retains its high ratings thanks to popular new Tour-inspired shape and stable head Lofts: 8.5-12.5° adjustable.

Contact: www.nike.com/golf Tech: Cavity-back design has been redesigned with FlyBrace technology, which reinforces the rearward portion of the head for greater ball speeds and up to six more yards than its predecessor. The Tour version is more pear shaped and has a face 15 per cent larger than the original Covert Tour. Both have the adjustable Flex loft hosel with three independent face angle settings.

What we said... JR: “The standard, stiff shaft performs well, if a touch on the light side. I’m glad Nike stuck with the red head colour– it still

TEST TEAM’S TWO KEY STATISTICS 58 GOLF ASIA

James Ridyard Distance: 277 yards Dispersion: 8 yards

looks great and of high quality. Performance wise it has a nice strong flight and sound with pretty good distance. Nike’s products improve every year.” JT: “The combination of the deep face, pear-shaped head and rich red crown on the Tour version makes this my favourite-looking driver on test. It also feels the hottest out of the middle for me. Tweaking the face left prevented my block right. It’s still plenty forgiving too and feels very stable. The Tour Wrap grip feels great in the dry but gets slippery in the wet.” SK: “I also prefer the Tour model’s shape, and it felt more powerful too. The stock stiff won’t work for everyone, but the x-stiff gave me more distance and accuracy. I just wish they’d get rid of the Joel Tadman Distance: 259 yards Dispersion: 2 yards

swoosh on the crown.” SM: “Like the other guys it felt hot off the face, but I wasn’t getting the same peak distances with my standard version consistently. It looks great and I even hit a few high draws, a rare occurance for me!”

Pros: Popular look and a really hot, stable feeling at impact. A worthy winner.

Cons: Stock grip becomes slippery when wet.

THE NUMBERS Looks: 9 Feel: 9.5 Sound: 9 Forgiveness: 8.5 Performance: 8.5 Rating:

Stephen Kidd Distance: 232 yards Dispersion: 10 yards

++++++++++ Steve Milnes Distance: 209 yards Dispersion: 7 yards

Callaway Big Bertha

Adjustable CG and a super-hot face proves to be a big hit with all on our Test Team Lofts: 9°, 10.5°, 13.5° HT. Alpha 9°, 10.5°.

Both adjustable Contact: www.callawaygolf.com Tech: Adjustable Perimeter Weighting (APW), an 8g sliding weight on a five-inch track on the back of the sole to reduce dispersion by up to 15 yards.

A Hyper Speed Face has a larger sweetspot than its predecessor while a forged composite crown means weight can be positioned lower for better launch. Loft and lie adjustable via the OptiFit hosel. Better-player Alpha boasts adjustable CG via a Gravity Core. Draw/fade bias can be changed via two weights in the heel and toe.

What we said... JR: “I actually preferred the look of

TEST TEAM’S TWO KEY STATISTICS

James Ridyard Distance: 271 yards Dispersion: 7 yards

the Big Bertha over the Alpha, but the Alpha edged it on distance. Both have a very traditional look. The face feels hot and while having the heavy end of Gravity Core sacrificed a few yards, I was able to shape the ball much more easily.” JT: “The Alpha went further with a more penetrating flight but I prefer the sliding weight on the standard version as an adjustability option. The contrast between face and crown makes alignment simple and the upright lie angle setting reduced my misses. Balls come off the face hot, but with a soft feel. Very addictive!” SK: “I slightly favour the clean look of the Alpha. The shaft in both feels long, which reduced control but they were super-long.” SM: “Setting the standard BB to heavy draw and adding loft Joel Tadman Distance: 255 yards Dispersion: 9 yards

reduced my fade, which took time to adjust to but gave me more yards. It makes your good shots better but might make your bad shots worse. Prefer having the alignment aid on the crown.”

Pros: Simple, premium look. Something for everyone. Longest for two of four testers.

Cons: Adjustability may bamboozle. Pricey.

Stephen Kidd Distance: 258 yards Dispersion: 4 yards

THE NUMBERS Looks: 9 Feel: 9 Sound: 8.5 Forgiveness: 9 Performance: 9 Rating:

++++++++++ Steve Milnes Distance: 226 yards Dispersion: 13 yards GOLF ASIA 59

GOLFING GEARGUIDE

TaylorMade SLDR

‘Lofting up’ lives up to its billing as low-spin model wins over our testing panel Lofts: 9.5°, 10.5°, 12°, 14° adjustable.

Contact: www.taylormadegolf.com Tech: The SLDR has the CG positioned extremely low and forward in the head for high launch with low spin and faster ball speeds. A 20g sliding weight on the sole can be fixed in any one of up to 21 positions, changing dispersion by up to 30 yards. Loft can be altered up or down by up to 1.5° via a 12-position loft sleeve.

What we said... JR: “It’s a nice-looking and sounding club, but I found it tough to control until I found a head/shaft combination that I liked. I was suprised how well the 10.5° head worked for me. It’s not a loft I’m used to seeing, but it

TEST TEAM’S TWO KEY STATISTICS 60 GOLF ASIA

James Ridyard Distance: 268 yards Dispersion: 7 yards

achieved the most distance.” JT: “This was a very different ball flight for me, a higher peak height due to increased launch with lower spin, giving me more carry with decent roll, too. It feels really powerful – although not quite as much as JetSpeed – and setting the sliding weight just two clicks into draw helped eliminate a miss right. The shape really suited my eye.” SK: “I’ve recently been fitted for a 10.5° SLDR, but got more distance using 11.5° with the TP shaft. I don’t like the shiny finish, but the contrast between face and crown made it easy to square up. I like having the ability to adjust the sliding weight to react to my shots from day to day.” SM: “I cranked the 12° head

Joel Tadman Distance: 262 yards Dispersion: 7 yards

up to 13° and launched the ball at 15° with 2500 rpm of spin – numbers I’d never seen before. It’s no wonder it was one of my longest on test. The look alone boosts confidence.”

Pros: Lofting up certainly helps with SLDR. Most will see significant distance gains.

Cons: Stock shafts reduce the value on offer.

Higher flight unlikely to suit windy conditions.

Stephen Kidd Distance: 254 yards Dispersion: 11 yards

THE NUMBERS Looks: 9 Feel: 9.5 Sound: 9 Forgiveness: 9 Performance: 8.5 Rating:

++++++++++ Steve Milnes Distance: 217 yards Dispersion: 9 yards

Our Biggest Discoveries Key findings from two days bashing 28 big dogs...

Realistically, more than half a dozen manufacturers would believe they were in with a chance of winning the top award in this year‘s test and there’s no doubt this was the closest, most competitive driver trial test we’ve carried out in years. We hope you’ve found the feedback insightful and useful in forming your forthcoming buying decisions. To finish off, here are some of the most important general findings we concluded...

NEW WAYS TO ADJUST Our test took all of the two days we allocated, hitting balls well into the night on The Belfry’s driving range. Why? Because there are so many settings you can play with in this year’s offerings, it took much longer for the four testers to find the combination that worked best for them.

While James had a good idea as to which loft, lie, face angle and shaft would suit

The Key Trackman Statistics Here are the average carry distances (total distance can be misleading) and dispersion numbers for every driver and each tester. The longest drive of the entire test was hit with a Ping i25 (284 yards) by James, while 18-handicapper Steve was straightest with a Yonex XP. Joel was longest on average with the TaylorMade Jetspeed, hitting his best of the day with it, while Stephen was furthest down the range with the Adams XTD and Callaway Big Bertha Alpha.

each tester and himself, you can never be totally sure until you give them a try.

Remember, it’s best to leave this in the hands of a qualified PGA professional.

EVEN MORE FORGIVENESS Distance from mis-hits is an area many of the top brands have focused on this year by incorporating variablethickness faces. While the sweetspot itself won’t get bigger, companies have made the area around it ‘hotter’ so distance losses on poor strikes are minimal. We were surprised at how well bad strikes held their line across the board. The Ping G25 and Cobra BiO CELL stood out in this category.

Adjustability is another way you can reduce the severity of your miss.

FIT FOR PURPOSE With so many adjustable options out there, it’s even more vital you get fitted for any new driver. This test certainly highlighted the

Driver (all stats in yards) Adams XTD

James Ridyard Distance Dispersion

Nearly every driver on test this year was adjustable.

importance of the correct shaft in the overall performance of the club, with some stock stiff offerings working far better than others.

VALUE BUYS It can be difficult to know what constitutes good value. On price alone, the TaylorMade JetSpeed and Mizuno JPX EZ represent the best of the award winners. At retail, the Callaway X2 Hot Pro is a steal for better players, while the adjustable Tour Edge XCG7 and Wilson FG Tour M3 will appeal to a wide spectrum of players. The MD Superfit is the cheapest adjustable driver.

Joel Tadman Distance Dispersion

Stephen Kidd Distance Dispersion

Steve Milnes Distance Dispersion

259

11

253

7

258

14

203

Benross RIP/HOT/MAX Speed 2

267

3

262

4

248

12

211

7

Callaway Big Bertha/Alpha

271

7

255

9

258

4

226

13

Callaway X2 Hot/X2 Hot Pro

255

8

256

8

253

7

221

9

Cleveland 588 Custom

268

10

249

7

247

14

210

15

Cobra BiO CELL/BiO CELL+

272

9

251

4

257

16

209

6

Dunlop DP1

247

8

247

8

248

12

200

14

John Letters Masters Model

265

7

258

6

244

12

212

15

Lynx Boom Boom 3

271

9

255

8

247

16

207

12

MD Superfit

265

16

243

9

248

9

209

6

Mizuno JPX EZ

274

5

260

5

251

12

215

8

Nike Covert 2.0/Covert 2.0 Tour

277

8

259

2

232

10

209

7

Ping G25

270

7

252

4

246

10

214

12

Ping i25

279

8

257

5

251

9

214

8

TaylorMade SLDR

268

7

262

7

254

11

217

9

TaylorMade JetSpeed

266

10

264

9

253

5

214

7

Titleist 913D2/D3

252

2

255

6

245

7

213

9

4

Tour Edge XCG7/Beta

261

9

248

10

245

9

194

8

Wilson FG Tour M3

266

5

256

7

250

2

209

6

Yonex XP

260

5

254

10

246

11

206

2

GOLF ASIA 61

GOLFING PROFILE

RORY

IMAGES © OMEGA SA

returns

62 GOLF ASIA

After ending 2013 on a high in Australia and with his confidence rebuilt, Rory McIlroy spoke of adding a couple more majors to his tally in 2014. False dawn, asks John Huggan, or is this the rebirth of the Rory of old?

S

IMAGES © OMEGA SA

omewhat out of left field, former Scottish rugby union international, Rory Lawson, summed things up perfectly via Twitter. “Never seen anyone make a difficult game look so effortless,” tweeted the grandson of the legendary BBC commentator, Bill McLaren.

The clearly talented individual to whom Lawson referred is actually a big rugby union fan. But he is far better known as a golfer. Make that a wonderful golfer. Which isn’t exactly news, of course. At the tender age of 24, Rory McIlroy is a two-time major champion and has eyed the broad spectrum of the professional game from

the lofty ranking of number one in the world. His résumé already contains more highlights than most careers.

“Rory is the most talented player to emerge since Seve Ballesteros fell out of his pram playing golf,” agrees Colin Montgomerie, under whose Ryder Cup captaincy McIlroy played in 2010.

And like the late, great Spaniard, McIlroy has never been the most consistent of performers, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

“I laugh when I read some of the things written about him and hear some of the things said,” says McIlroy’s close friend, former Irish Open champion, Shane

Lowry. “He’s never been the sort of player who gets himself into contention every single week.”

Still, last year, after picking off major championships – both by outrageous margins – in 2011 and 2012, the young Ulsterman hit something of the proverbial brick wall. Plagued by off-course issues – a change of clubs, legal conflicts with his former management group and Oakley sunglasses, speculation regarding the state of his relationship with his girlfriend, tennis star Caroline Wozniacki, and swing problems that saw his ‘greens in regulation’ statistic plummet down the rankings, McIlroy had a troubled time of it until victory in the Australian Open was closely followed by an engagement announcement.

“Rory’s win in Australia was very significant,” says Europe’s Ryder Cup skipper Paul McGinley. “I know myself how important it is to finish any year strongly. It sets you up and puts a spring in your step over Christmas and New Year. If you’re going to play well at any time of year, the end is not a bad place to do it. It gives you momentum going into the new season. I’m sure Rory is ready for anything in 2014.”

Certainly, some pretty good judges agree. Many are already looking forward to what could be something of a bumper 2014 for the charismatic youngster.

“Rory’s body language is always very revealing,” says Sky Sports analyst, Tim Barter, the man who routinely interviews McIlroy at the end of every significant round.

“In Abu Dhabi this January he was very nearly back to the ‘old’ Rory we saw in 2011 and 2012. His eyes were different too. I could tell how much he was enjoying being out there. He was happy and focused. There was a spark and a strut about him.

“In interviews that week he was a lot less defensive. He was looking forward and not back. When he was struggling he was on GOLF ASIA 63

GOLFING PROFILE

the back foot more. He has never lost his inherent honesty – even when there was a lot going on in his life off the course – and for that I admire him. I’ve always been able to ask him anything. And when he is ‘up’ he will literally just say what is in his head. You have to love him for that. If he carries on in that vein, I’d expect him to have a monster 2014.

I’m not sure he’ll be winning majors by eight shots, but it will be very different from 2013.

It’s like ‘watch out I’m back’.”

From a technical point of view, McIlroy’s swing does seem to have moved on.

The obvious drop to the inside on the downswing – something he has fought his whole golfing life – has largely disappeared.

“Rory’s mistake earlier this year was starting the backswing with his hands,” contends his coach, Michael Bannon. “That moved his arms away from his body and put the club outside the ideal plane.

He then looped it under again on the downswing. That was where all those block-fades came from.

“Add in the fact that he didn’t play enough early in 2013, and he struggled a bit last year. He’s in a much better place now though. He’s starting the club back on a much better line that has him swinging freely through impact.”

There is much more to scoring well than swinging well, of course. Putting, for example, an area of the game where McIlroy has forever been red-hot hot or ice-cold, with little in between those extremes.

“To get to where he wants to o be – and be the player people e think he can be – Rory has to improve in two areas,” contends ds Hank Haney, who coached Tiger Woods oods to six major victories and Mark O’Meara eara to two.

“He needs to be more consistent ent in terms of how many greens he hits in regulation and he needs to putt a bit better. ter. At their peaks, both Jack Nicklaus and d Tiger Woods led in GIR almost all the he time and both were incredible putters. I look at Rory’s game and see someone ne who is incredible when he is ‘on.’

But so far he hasn’t been ‘on’ as often as I would like.

64 GOLF ASIA

“Rory is what I call ‘streaky great’. And if he can produce that on a more regular basis he will move from ‘streaky’ to ‘truly’ great. Right now, the expectation level on him is based on a couple of huge wins; not on the golf he produces most of the time. He is enormously impressive at his best, but if you look at his overall body of work so far, what is most impressive is his potential. Which is no bad thing, as long as he continues to progress.

“What he has in spades is the thing that separates great players from their competition: distance. Rory at his best is the best driver in the game; he’s very long and very straight. That’s a huge plus.

Driving well, he is playing courses up to 400 yards shorter than many guys out there. Over four days that is unbeatable unless he putts horribly.

“But But putting is the real key. The truly great players have ha all hit lots of greens and putted well well. Rory needs to combine those aspects of o the game more often.

His GIR is too t often no better than average.

And the same is true ave of his putting. If he makes improvements on the greens he h will be dominant. If he doesn’t we w will see more of what we have already seen from him.

Every now n and then he will win by eight eigh shots. But he will find it difficult tto win by one shot as long as he is so s average on the greens.”

TOP: Illus Illustrating there’s no ‘i’ in team, McIlroy celebrates ce the 2012 Ryder Cup victory. LE LEFT: His swing has moved on after a tro troubled 2013 and McIlroy has found a m much better line.

‘Rory’s game is incredible when he’s ‘on’. He’s just not been ‘on’ as often as I would like’ – Hank Haney

WHAT LIES AHEAD FOR RORY IN 2014?

We ask the game’s top players how well McIlroy is playing right now...

JUSTIN ROSE When I played with him recently, every shot was pretty straight, with good ball flight.

He hit a lot of really good putts, too; and is getting some confidence, for sure. That’s the thing with Rory, he’s always been one round away from playing great golf.

PADRAIG HARRINGTON

Posing with the Australian Open trophy, bringing a happy end to a troubled 2013.

He has hot and cold spells.

He’s always been like that.

He is often compared to Tiger, but maybe he’s more like Phil – very talented, very streaky. As he accepts that that’s his style, he’ll peak more every week. And those weeks when he is on, he’ll lap the field.

TIGER WOODS When you have success, there are more responsibilities at a tournament and more distractions.

That’s something he has learned and he’s figured out. I like Rory as a person.

We give each other the needle quite a bit, which is fun. He’s a really nice kid.

GRAEME MCDOWELL I am never surprised when Rory wins. His game looks back to its best. He’s driving the ball exceedingly well, which has always been a staple of Rory’s game. When you have a balance in your life off the course, that frees up the mind and body so that you can perform.

PAUL MCGINLEY

McIlroy’s putting has been red-hot or ice-cold – but very rarely much in between.

Rory has always played with emotion, in what I would call an ‘old-fashioned way’. He has great instincts and plays with great flair and fun. How he feels about himself affects that too. If he plays with greater consistency, the rest had better look out.

GOLF ASIA 65

GOLFING PROFILE

clearly destined for great things, even if those have arrived even quicker than we all imagined. Having said that, he was very much a part of the team. Although a lot of attention was focused on him, he always behaved as if he was one of 10. There was never any ‘grandstanding,’ even when so many people wanted some of his time. He handled it all beautifully.

“He gave 100 per cent in every match too, even if he didn’t get as many points as he might have expected. Again, he handled

One man who knows more than most about McIlroy’s putting stroke is former US PGA champion Dave Stockton. “When anyone hires me, I’m always going to delve more into the mental side of putting than the physical,” he says. “Rory never gets in his own way though. I’ve never seen him like that. He did get down on himself a little last year. But all I told him was that I didn’t want to turn on the TV and be able to tell whether he made birdie or bogey on the last hole.

“I want him to show more emotion than Tiger. I want him to enjoy himself. But I don’t want ups and downs. I played all those years against Nicklaus and I never knew whether Jack was happy or sad. He didn’t let his golf affect his personality or vice versa. That’s what I cautioned Rory about more than anything.”

Still, the key word in all of the above is ‘consistency’. Like every other golfer, that is the Holy Grail McIlroy ultimately seeks.

But unlike every other golfer, the former US Open and PGA champion’s search is made easier by the knowledge that his best golf is already better than anyone else’s. So all he has to do is make his average golf better.

Certainly, when it comes to team competitions, Rory has shown true class both on and off the course. Unlike some in his position, he seems to be able to turn himself into a ‘team man’ at a whim, which says much for his character. “Rory was only 17 in 2007, but he was a very mature 17,” says Colin Dalgleish, his Walker Cup captain that year at Royal County Down.

“He was the best player in the side and

2013 – THE YEAR RORY WANTS TO FORGET...

JA N UA RY

66 GOLF ASIA

that aspect of it all perfectly. There was never any sign of any petulance. He was obviously very grounded, a fact that speaks for the upbringing he received from his parents. He was treated as special from a very early age – he has that in common with Tiger – but you would never have known it within the team environment. He certainly never flouted his success. His feet were firmly on the ground and I was enormously impressed by that.”

Before Rory made his debut in the

With the future Mrs McIlroy, Danish tennis star Caroline Wozniacki.

THE WALK OFF

THE LEGAL CASE

After eight holes of the Honda Classic, he walks off the course; first blaming his mental state, then a wisdom tooth. Loses the world number one spot.

Announced that Rory is leaving Horizon to go to Rory McIlroy Incorporated. He files a lawsuit in October claiming he was ‘coaxed into signing a limiting deal’ at a Christmas party. The case is due to end in November.

M A RCH

A PR IL

M AY

THE NIKE DEAL

THE BRIDESMAID

The switch from Titleist added a reported US$250 million to Rory’s bank account, in a much publicised equipment and apparel deal.

Finishes runner-up in the Texas Open, just before the Masters; but it is a false dawn as Rory finishes tied 25th at Augusta. In the other three majors of the year he also falls short, finishing 41st, missing the cut and tying for 8th.

Ryder Cup at Celtic Manor, he made some controversial remarks, which he has since regretted, about the event. “The Ryder Cup is a great spectacle but an exhibition at the end of the day and it should be there to be enjoyed; in the big scheme of things it’s not that important to me,” he said; and found himself in deep water. Since then, he has embraced every aspect of the event, and at Medinah in 2012 won three crucial points.

“Rory was an excellent team member,” says Paul Lawrie, one of his team mates at

Medinah. “He was clearly one of the five or six players upon whom José María Olazábal was leaning most heavily. So Rory pretty much knew what was going on at all times.

But there was never any hint of him acting as if he wasn’t just one of the lads. He mixed well with everyone and was great in the team room, when he wasn’t asleep. I was amazed by how much he slept. But that’s apparently what young boys do.

“I have always got on well with Rory.

I played with him at The Belfry in his

While McIlroy’s life has changed, his personable nature remains intact.

‘McIlroy’s majors search is made easier by the knowledge that his best golf is better than anyone else’s.

He just needs to make his average golf better’ first-ever event as a professional. I knew right away that he was special. Which wasn’t hard. He was different even on the first tee. But alongside that he was very pleasant to play with. An awesome kid.

“Yes, he has changed a little since those days. But not in a bad way, only in ways that you would expect in someone living the life he leads. My opinion of him has never changed. At Medinah he and I were having a chat after we’d won the cup. I was saying that my kids might think I’m cool now. To which he replied: ‘You were cool even before today.’ That was so nice and something I’ll never forget. Even if I know it isn’t really true. I still don’t think my kids think I’m cool. And I’m not sure Rory does either!”

The last – and hopefully most prophetic – word goes to McIlroy’s fellow Ulsterman, Darren Clarke. “Rory has so much talent, I never know what to expect,” says the 2011 Open champion. “He could win all four majors this year. He could win only one or two. He could win 10 tournaments. Nothing would surprise me. But I know he’ll be better than he was last year. That’s a given.”

THE OPEN

THE VICTORY

Claiming he feels “brain dead”, McIlroy misses the cut in the Open, putting ng into a bunker, and shooting ng a painful 79.

It may arrive late in the year, but victory finally comes at the Australian Open, where he beats local favourite Adam Scott. It has many predicting a big 2014 for the Northern Irishman.

J ULY LY

SEP TEMBER T

DECEMBER

THE RUMOURS

THE ENGAGEMENT

Several newspapers run stories suggesting Rory has split up from his girlfriend, Caroline Wozniacki, after she posted a picture of him asleep and snoring on Twitter.

‘Wozzilroy’, as they’ve dubbed themselves, announce their engagement on Twitter on New Year’s Eve. “My first victory of 2014 #shesaidyes!” tweets McIlroy.

GOLF ASIA 67

GOLFING

INSTRUCTION

When Good Swings

GO BAD! Even if they have just won a clutch of Majors, golfers just can’t leave their swings alone. Men who’ve coached Faldo, Els and Clarke explain why we can’t resist tinkering

7+(1

68 GOLF ASIA

W

hat do you do when you’re a professional golfer who’s just won three Majors in 14 months? If your name is Padraig Harrington, you completely dismantle the swing that brought you two Opens and a PGA Championship to try and get even better – causing a collective scratching of heads around the world. The Irishman highlights better than any other player the frail relationship many golfers of all standards have with their swing.

Ask any expert why Harrington took this risky decision while he was the best golfer in the world and you’ll get a similar response. “People have asked Padraig why he changed his swing and he still hasn’t really come up with an answer that’s been very logical to me,” says David Leadbetter, the man who famously remodelled Nick Faldo’s swing and

saw it propel his star pupil to six Majors.

“He’s obviously a perfectionist, but as he’s tried to get better he’s got worse.”

Ewen Murray, a former pro and coach of Darren Clarke as well as the longtime voice of Sky Sports’ golf coverage, agrees: “Harrington obviously felt that having won three Majors he could get even better, but he should’ve stuck with what he had. If what he was doing was good enough for three Majors, it would’ve been good enough for another three.”

Murray’s point about Harrington goes some way to explaining why some of the world’s best golfers rip up the swings that have served them so well: it’s the feeling that, even in the middle of a rich vein of form, they can take their games to even greater heights. “There’s this inner thought that they can achieve perfection,” argues Leadbetter. “Look at

Lee Westwood: why would he want to make changes to his swing? He’s been one of the best ball strikers in the world for a number of years now, but there’s that inherent aspect in all of us that we always think we can find that tiny detail that’s going to take us to another level.

“Even 20-handicappers hit great shots and they want to hit more.

That’s the fascination of this sport.”

With some professionals, it isn’t simply a case of trying to get even better, it’s almost a question of aiming for invincibility. Luther Blacklock, a Master PGA professional and the former head pro at Woburn for 28 years, thinks there’s no better example of this than Tiger Woods. “The reason Tiger’s now struggling to win a Major is because he’s trying to control his game to the nth degree,” he says. “He’s got to go back to just letting rip and accepting the odd wild

12: GOLF ASIA 69

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‘you get to an age where you’ve created a dna in your swing’

DON’T PANIC! THIS IS WHAT TO DO IF YOU LOSE YOUR SWING...

Keep this issue in a safe place in case of emergency. Our experts will see you through your crisis DAVID LEADBETTER “Instinct changes over time in a swing and you can revert to bad old habits, so having one or two little drills to fall back on helps. Stand with your feet three inches apart and swing an 8-iron. This drill makes you swing more within yourself, and your timing improves.

Also, check basics like grip, alignment and posture – they are your foundations.

70 GOLF ASIA

LUTHER BLACKLOCK “Go to the range with a 7-iron, put your left hand behind your back and try hitting little 20-yard pitches with your right hand. Add in your left, and start hitting bigger versions. Then start to turn your body, and gradually open up the power. It gets the fun back in your game. Be a kid. Be creative and allow yourself to fail.�

EWEN MURRAY “Ask a 20-handicapper what they want to do and they’ll say that they want to hit it a mile. But if I was 30 years old, played off 20 and wanted to be a decent golfer for the rest of my life, I’d have a course of lessons that started at the beginning.

Good fundamentals produce good results, and you’ll never get good scores without them.�

GOLFING

INSTRUCTION

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shot. His B-game is maybe still the best in the world, but the problem in golf is that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve got to beat about 160 other players, and you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t do that hitting 2-irons with a limited tee shot. He ruled the world in 2000 when he was missing fairways. Now heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hitting more fairways than ever but his Major results are going backwards.â&#x20AC;?

Murray agrees. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Tigerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s performances in 2000 and 2001 were the best the game has ever been played. I was privileged to be alive to see it â&#x20AC;&#x201C; he was that good.

Why youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d change that, I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know.â&#x20AC;?

It all highlights the reason why weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all addicted to this game, regardless of standard: if Woods is still working on drills at the age of 38, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hope for the rest of us. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think one of the problems is that whatever standard of golf you play, people tend to revert back to bad old habits theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve had at some stage,â&#x20AC;? argues Leadbetter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve known Nick Price since he was 12 years old â&#x20AC;&#x201C; thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s over 40 years

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â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and I can tell you he has some of the same issues with his swing today that he did back then. In a way weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re captive to the ďŹ rst time we swing a golf club. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why I think the smart players out there know their tendencies and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t panic.â&#x20AC;?

Sadly, there are many examples of brilliant golfers who have panicked â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whether in a quest for perfection or a feeling that their trusty swing has deserted them. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You can go back to any era for players whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve done it,â&#x20AC;? says Leadbetter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;One of the great young players was a guy called Bobby Clampett, who was leading the 1982 Open after 36 holes by seven shots.

After that he got blown off the course, so he thought, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Well my swingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s obviously not going to stand up to the pressure of championship golf â&#x20AC;&#x201C; I need to change itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. He made some radical changes and you never heard about him again. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Look at Oliver Wilson: to me, four

or ďŹ ve years ago, he looked like he was really going to come through.

Then he started making changes and swapping coaches; he was never really the same player. Changing your swing can be a very slippery slope.â&#x20AC;?

Blacklock sums it up succinctly: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s better to be Jim Furyk timing it than Jim Furyk trying to be orthodox and missing it.â&#x20AC;?

Not all players who decide to change their swing â&#x20AC;&#x201C; whether they want to better it or rediscover it â&#x20AC;&#x201C; end up being a shadow of their former selves. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Nick Faldo was right to change his, because the swing he had in 1983 was not going to hold up and he was clever to realise that,â&#x20AC;? says Murray. â&#x20AC;&#x153;He made drastic changes to everything: posture, takeaway, backswing position, the release â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and it was the right thing to do.â&#x20AC;? Yet as the man behind the most successful swing change in professional golf, Leadbetter makes a valid point. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always felt that you get to a certain age where youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve created a certain DNA in your swing, and making certain changes after that age is tricky,â&#x20AC;? he argues. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Faldo was 28 when we made all those changes to his swing, and I think even that was borderline.â&#x20AC;?

For those who canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t get the same amount of success as Faldo from a change of swing, one wonders why they canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t just go back to the old one? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not so easy, because when you change your swing you alter the feeling, motion and timing,â&#x20AC;? says Murray. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Padraigâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s swing with Bob Torrance was his natural swing, and Tigerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s swing with Butch Harmon was his natural swing. Once youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve deviated from that, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to go back to what was once natural.â&#x20AC;?

Leadbetter agrees. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re very intimate with your swing. The danger is, when you start making big changes, you stop knowing it so well. I remember talking to Byron Nelson, who won 11 consecutive pro tournaments in 1945.

I asked him how much he practised in between winning them and he said, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I hardly hit a ball. I just hit a few to loosen up and then just went out and played, because I was so scared that I was going to lose the feel that I hadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.â&#x20AC;?

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Three Of The Best Swing Changes...

1

TIGER WOODS He may be having some swing issues at the moment, but after teaming up with Butch Harmon after the 1997 Masters win, Woods became unbeatable. He said. “I thought I could become better. I’ve always taken risks to try to become a better golfer, and that’s one of the things that has got me this far.” With Harmon he did become better, and won eight more majors.

2

NICK FALDO “Nick really had a swing from the 1970s which was understandable because he grew up in that era,” said Leadbetter. After hitting 500-800 balls a day for two years, Faldo grooved a flatter plane on a more solid base and won six Majors.

3

Hot property Foley is busy creating Tiger mark IV...

Sometimes it is not physical but mental, says Blacklock: “A player can lose their game but it’s because they’ve lost confidence. They’ve lost their confidence because the shot’s not going right, the Leadbetter shot’s not going right working with because there’s a Seve back in the day. fault in the swing, and there’s a fault in the swing because they’re compensating for good timing.”

Ultimately, what us normal golfers have in common with Padraig g Harrington and Tiger Woods is something rather simple: the desire to improve, and the feeling that hitting that perfect shot must be possible to do more often. Leadbetter, though, sounds a note of caution. “Ben Hogan once told me he probably hit no more than two perfect shots a round, and that’s someone who was about the best ball striker in history bar none. The thing is, whether it’s you, me or Tiger, a golfer gets such a high from hitting a shot that comes out exactly as they planned they want to be able to do it on a more regular basis. It’s like a drug.” For some more than others, it’s a habit that is impossible to kick.

72 GOLF ASIA

BEN HOGAN Hogan incorporated a mysterious movement into his swing to transform himself from a journeyman into major champ – winning the Masters, US Open and the Open in 1953, the only player ever to do so in the same season. To this day, Hogan’s secret has never really been revealed.

...And The Worst

1

IAN BAKER-FINCH “He came to me after he’d won The Open in ’91 and said, ‘Look, I’m worried that golf is going to become a power game,” recalls Leadbetter. “I said, ‘Look, you hit it far enough – you just need to focus on what you’re doing.’ He tried to change his swing to get more distance, with the help of a coach in Australia. But he lost the feel for what he had to start with, and he couldn’t go back to the new swing he had either.”

2

PADRAIG HARRINGTON Despite two Majors and rising to No.3 in the world in 2008, Harrington searched for improvements. “All I know is what is normal for me, and what is normal for me is changing. That is what I do.”

He’s still searching…

3

MIKE WEIR The 2003 Masters champion was one of a number of pros who went to the “Stack and Tilt” swing. It didn’t work, and Weir returned to his old swing in 2010.

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NEW ZEALAND

Cape Continues To Blaze Golfâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eco Trail The celebrated 18 here at Cape Kidnappers has, in the first couple of months of 2014, solidified its place among the top-ranked courses in the world, along with its standing as the gameâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most ambitious environmental golf property

Hole 15 green.

Aerial shot of the cliffs.

Clubhouse.

Fairway of hole 5.

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O

n Jan. 16, Audubon International renewed the Tom Doakdesigned Cape Kidnappers Golf Course as a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, golf’s highest environmental designation. Only 873 of the world’s approximately 35,000 courses have achieved this certification.

However, it’s unlikely that any course ranked prior to Cape Kidnappers is home to as many endangered species introductions or wildlife protection zones, to say nothing of kiwi footprints in bunkers and rare kakariki birds nesting in the maintenance shed.

“We’ve recently added bee hives to the property, which will help in the pollination of all the Cape’s plant species and we plan to extract our own ‘Cape Honey’ for the restaurant at some point,” said Cape Kidnappers

course superintendent Brad Sim. “We’ve also added some 1,689 native plantings in the last year, representing 11 different species, and a wildflower field, which is more a point of interest for our non-golfing guests, perhaps, but it looks pretty spectacular. It’s this combination of world-class golf, lodging and environmental programs that makes Cape Kidnappers so unique.

Holes 12 Through 17 Cape Kidnappers is more than an elite golf and resort venue, it is an actual landform unto itself, a triangular headland whose white cliffs jut 8 kilometres into the Pacific from the North Island, wine-region community of Napier.

Owned by American hedge fund legend Julian Robertson, the golf course and adjoining lodge (the 5-star Farm at Cape

Kidnappers) occupy but a fraction of a 2,400-hectare property that represents one of the largest privately owned wildlife preserves in New Zealand.

The resort itself, The Farm at Cape Kidnappers, has earned a lofty reputation in its own right. In 2010, it was named as one of Travel+Leisure’s, “World’s Top 50 Hotels”. It earned Gold List status from Condé Nast Traveller for 2012. Soon the celebrated dining room will serve its own honey alongside the meat and vegetables raised on property.

Yet Cape Kidnappers also maintains the largest gannet colony in the world.

Populations of rare kiwi and pateke birds - plus the very rare brown teal duck, are routinely released and nurtured here, on land protected by a predator-proof fence some 13 km in circumference.

Guests are invited to hike and explore

Hole 15 is also known as Pirate's Plank.

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NEW ZEALAND the vast property, even track kiwis now living in the Cape Sanctuary.

Sim’s maintenance crew routinely works alongside Farm and Cape Sanctuary staff to ensure the on-course environment complements work carried out across the wider property. This means, among other things, carrying out pest control, monitoring water quality in old farm dams, maintaining the integrity of the predator-proof fence, restoring habitat for native species, and removing invasive species like blackberry, pink ragwort and boxthorn.

“We on the golf staff get involved with wildlife conservation efforts as much as possible,” Sim said. “Prior to my arrival, the staff helped with building the birdbreeding aviaries and also installed their water supply, something we continue to maintain. We got a nice thank you for that effort when we found the kakariki trying to nest in our maintenance shed last year. We always have a couple staff at any release of new species. Recently there was a release of a predominately ground-dwelling bird, the Saddleback, which for many years only survived on a predator-free offshore island. They were brought in by helicopter and lots of locals came to witness the release, which was months in the planning.”

Iwi representatives [Maori tribal elders] from both the bird’s island of origin and Hawkes Bay region performed a karakia, which is a blessing or prayer.

“All watched over the release with great pride. The whole process is quite

Hole 2.

76 GOLF ASIA

Stunning scenery.

The tee on hole 5.

spiritual actually, as most of the releases are,” Sim said. “The Saddleback in particular didn’t go so well at first, but we’ve recently got evidence they’re breeding: chicks and hatchling remnants. These are ground-running birds. They don’t fly far, but they found a pair outside the Sanctuary in a local’s garden down in Te Awanga, 10-15 kilometres away. This pair was released back into the sanctuary. The population will be ‘topped up’ in August, with a release of more saddleback collected from Bushy Park in Wanganui.”

When he and his staff aren’t releasing rare species or nurturing highly sought after manuka honey, Sim does what all superintendents do: he tends to his golf course. They are working hard this season at organic matter reduction/ control, which includes coring fairways for the first time since the club opened in 2004. As part of Cape Kidnappers’ recent recertification, Audubon International enlisted the help of Craig France of the Sustaining Hawkes Bay Trust. France visited the course and observed first-hand, and in great detail, Sim’s environmental practices on course and off.

“Craig applauded your continuing efforts to maintain naturalized areas on the golf course, which provide valuable water, food and habitat for local and migratory wildlife in the area,” wrote Doug Bechtel, Audubon’s associate director of Environmental Programs. “He noted your extensive native plantings, sighted kiwi prints in a sand bunker!

And was impressed by the diverse and

Fairway bunker on hole 5.

Hole 16.

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NEW ZEALAND

View of the lodge.

Cottage patio.

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The Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program (ACSP) for Golf This is an award winning education and certification program that helps golf courses protect our environment and preserve the natural heritage of the game of golf. By helping people enhance the valuable natural areas and wildlife habitats that golf courses provide, improve efficiency, and minimize potentially harmful impacts of golf course operations, the program serves as vital resource for golf courses. Audubon International has developed, “Standard Environmental Management Practices” that are generally applicable to all golf courses.

These standards form the basis for ACSP for golf certification guidelines.

extensive wildlife corridors and buffer habitats around all water bodies.

“Your pest management methods and chemical use practices at the course are exemplary, and we applaud your use of scouting, setting thresholds for turf diseases and pests, and creative use of cattle for Porina grub control. These are great examples of integrated pest management. Craig recorded all your appropriate IPM methods, and noted your rotation of low toxicity pesticides and wide no-spray zones. We applaud these efforts and consider them good role models for other facilities.”

Red-billed gulls & white-fronted terns at Flat Rock.

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AUSTRALIA

Snorkelling, Ningaloo Reef, WA© Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef

Cockburn Range, The Kimberley, WA © Delaware North Companies 80 GOLF ASIA

Taronga Western Plains Zoo Zoofari Lodge and Billabong Camp. NSW © Taronga Western Plains Zoo

A Vast Country Of Riches Australia is the world’s sixth largest country in terms of total area, and is home to some of the most diverse landscapes in the world, ideal for golf courses of differing character

BY JUSTINE MOSS

A

ustralia has a stellar crop of some of the world’s finest, diverse and exclusive golf courses, such as Royal Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide, The Australian and NSW Golf Club. There are, however, many other jewels in the country’s crown, which would be welcome on any avid golfer’s itinerary. The good news is that many are accessible via car or public transport from major cities or towns, so it’s very easy to fly into one or more of the states or territories in the country, pick up a hire car and play on some of the best golf courses in the world. Golf Asia tracks down some of those layouts, which should be included on one’s itinerary.

Albany Whale Watching © Tourism Western Australia GOLF ASIA 81

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AUSTRALIA

NEW SOUTH WALES The Lakes Golf Club Host of the 2010, 2011 and 2012 Australian Open, this club is located 15 minutes from Sydneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s central business district. The four Par 5 s including the famous water carry on the 14th hole provide a challenging test for every golfer, and with the entire course built on the Sydney Sandbelt the golf course is regarded as one of the best wet weather courses in the region. The ďŹ nal nine holes borders the Botany Aquifer and wetlands area, with an abundance of wild life, scenic views and a range of tempting golf shots. Facilities include driving range, short game facility, clubhouse, restaurant and spa/sauna.

A: Cnr King St & Vernon Ave, Eastlakes, Sydney / PO Box 545, Mascot NSW 1460 T: (+612) 9669 1311 F: (+612) 9669 6206 E: info@thelakesgolfclub.com.au W: www.thelakesgolfclub.com.au

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Stonecutters Ridge Golf Club This is Sydney’s first Greg Norman designed golf course, and one of the many appealing aspects of this layout, which is ranked in Australia’s top 100 courses is how the 6,328 metre, par 72 course sits amongst the rolling

topography of the site. Framed by the natural meanderings of Eastern Creek and surrounding bushland, the course, which will host the 2014 New South Wales Open, reflects the characteristics of its natural surrounds. Designed with three distinct landscaping themes in mind, each aspect

complements the overall development and provides a range of sensory experiences as players travel around the course. There are intimidating bunkers, challenging greens and impressive water hazards, which are all hallmarks of a Greg Norman design. Facilities include an award-winning clubhouse, tennis courts and pro-shop.

A: 86 Stonecutters Drive, Colebee, NSW 2761 T: (+612) 9627 7081 F: (+612) 9627 7586 E: reception@srgc.net.au W: www.stonecuttersgc.com.au

QUEENSLAND Hamilton Island Golf Club Located at the edge of the Great Barrier Reef, the Hamilton Island Golf Club on nearby Dent Island has some of the most spectacular views and settings of any golf course in the world. Designed by champion golfer Peter Thomson, this is the only island-based championship golf course in Australia, and has been designed as a series of holes strung along the ridges and played across steep valleys. The par 71, 18 hole course, which is accessible only by ferry or helicopter, features two distinctly different nine hole circuits returning to a central clubhouse with panoramic views of Dent Passage and Hamilton Island. The outward nine holes are a more compact layout around the centre of the island and the inward nine are strung out along the ridges to the south. Facilities include clubhouse, restaurant, pro-shop and accommodation.

A: Dent Island Clubhouse, C/O Hamilton Island Enterprises, 4803, Australia T: (+617) 4948 9760 E: golf@hamiltonisland.com.au W: www.hamiltonislandgolfclub.com.au

GOLF ASIA 83

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AUSTRALIA

Sanctuary Cove Golf & Country Club The club has two 18-hole facilities â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Ross Watson-designed Palms Golf Course which underwent a multi-million dollar reconstruction and reopened in April 2011.

A championship course, it has a total length of 5904 metres off the championship tees, and has numerous water features and hazards. Tee placements have been designed to suit a variety of playing conditions and a diverse range of players.

The Arnold Palmer-designed Pines has been carved through 101 hectares of established pine forest, and features corridor approaches to several holes, with lakes guarding others. A total of 14 holes are contoured around six man-made lakes.

An abundance of wildlife features on The Pines including rare bird life and scores of native Australian kangaroos. Facilities include restaurants, swimming pool and tennis courts.

A: The Parkway, PO Box 805, Sanctuary Cove, QLD 4212 T: (+617) 5699 9000 E: info@scgcc.com.au W: www.sanctuarycovegolfclub.com.au

84 GOLF ASIA

le Pre-Saial Spec

FOOTBALL WEEKLY

0 0 .

8 $ WORLD CUP REVIEW rice usual p $10.00

COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE ON THE WORLD’S BIGGEST SPORTING EVENT NFIC; :LG GI<;@:K@FEJ

N_Xk K_\ <og\ikj JXp Football Weekly’s favourite predictions column is back, this time for the 2010 FIFA World Cup! Football Weekly’s pundits Tom Lim and Shaun Loh walk us through all 32 participating nations and find out their chances in the month-long tournament. Will Italy defend their World Cup, or will Spain finally lift the golden trophy? Let’s find out!

AUSTRALIA The Socceroos are a determined bunch which has shown impressive improvements since the last World Cup. With a bit of luck and good results, Australia could be the only Asian nation in the second round, which is about as far as they would go really.

VERDICT: SECOND ROUND

BRAZIL

CAMEROON

Five-times champions Brazil have a good chance to win the World Cup but they must not press the self-destruct button. The Samba boys have a tendency to switch off after taking the lead although they do not concede goals easily as well.

VERDICT: CHAMPION

Like their African neighbour Algeria, Cameroon have fallen in standard and have a mountain to climb in South Africa. Cameroon will have a chance to go through if they can obtain a result against Denmark in their second game.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

to plan, their biggest stumbling block is the quarter-final, where they could face Argentina and an on-form Messi could spell trouble for the Germans.

VERDICT: QUARTER FINAL

GROUP G – BRAZIL

GHANA Ghana must be cursing their luck when the draw was made.

Both Serbia and Australia are no pushovers and if Ghana could steal a win from either of these two teams, they will make it to the next round.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

CHILE Chile could get the perfect head start if they can beat Honduras but they do not have good attacking options and their weakness in attack might prove fatal in their matches against Denmark and Spain.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

GREECE Euro 2004 champions Greece have lots to prove since the last World Cup. The Greeks will bank their hopes on top scorer Theofanis Geokas to get the goals and sad to say, they may not have the luck to go through.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

DENMARK Denmark shone in qualifying and they should carry that form in the group stage. Denmark will face tricky opponents in Japan and Cameroon but victories against both teams should be enough to see them through to the second round.

VERDICT: SECOND ROUND

HISTORY

SOUTH AFRICA As hosts of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, the entire nation will be cheering Bafana Bafana on. With a heavy weight of expectations on their shoulders, can South Africa defy seemingly impossible odds to make it to the second round of the World Cup? VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

ALGERIA The Desert Foxes make their World Cup debut in June and they could bow out of the tournament as early as

106

the second game. They have struggled against better teams in international friendlies and the difference in standards will show.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

ARGENTINA The Argentineans are slow and steady in their game but with explosive players like Messi and Higuain, Argentina will be exciting to watch in this World Cup and will be a far cry from the standards they have shown during qualifying.

VERDICT: SEMI FINAL

FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

HONDURAS

ENGLAND

The English should breeze through the group stage and Confederação Brasileira de Futebol (CBF) the second round without much Association Founded 1914a problems. But if history plays FIFA Affiliation Since part, they will have to pay1923 extra FIFA/Coca Cola World Ranking 2nd caution to their opponents in the quarter-final, a stage where Appearences at finals: England have fallen on numerous 1930: First round 1934: First round occasions.

1938: Third place 1950. Runners-up 1954: Quarter-finals 1958:SEMI Winners VERDICT: FINAL 1962. Winners 1966: First round 1970: Winners 1974: Fourth place 1978: Third place FRANCE 1982: Second group stage 1986: Quarter-finals 1990: Second round 1994: Winners It is interesting to see France in 1998: Runners-up 2002: Winners 2006: Quarter-fi the World Cup after thenals manner in which they qualified. A number of young stars will be showcased during the tournament and France can go far if those Overall record at finals: Played 92, Won 64, Drawn 14, Lost 14. youngsters can shake off the big Best performance: Winners in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994 and 2002.

Most appearances at finals: Cafú (1994, 1998, 2002, 2006)stage - 21. jitters.

VERDICT: SECOND ROUND Most goals at finals. Ronaldo (1998, 2002, 2006) - 15.

PAST RECORDS

World Cup high: Winners of five World Cups, Brazil’s brilliant 4-1 victory over Italy in the final of the 1970 was among the finest everGERMANY There tournament for the men in yellow. The squad boasted legends such as is no doubt Germany are defensively sound and strong Pelé, Jairzinho and Rivelino and they slaughtered Italy with no mercy. in attack. If things go according World Cup low: The final of France 98 was a huge disappointment for Brazil after they lost 3-0 to France. Ronaldo was not in the right shape and mind and Zinedine Zidane punished them with a fine performance.

Qualification: Brazil had no trouble during qualifying, although they drew one too many throughout the qualifying campaign. Yet, Brazil led the group comfortably and could afford to lose and draw their last two matches with Bolivia and Venezuela respectively.

There was huge disappointment when Brazil lost to Paraguay and then drew 0-0 with Argentina but the team made amends with three convincing wins and especially the 3-1 away victory at Argentina where they all but sewed up qualification and secured their Worth Cup berth in South Africa.

88

FOOTBALL

The Hondurans rely on patience in their game but are usually clueless in front of goal. Their inability to score goals could be their downfall.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND

PLAYER SPOTLIGHT

Name: Kaká

ITALY D.O.B: 22 April 1982

Defending champions will Birth Place: Brasilia,Italy Brazil use their experience to surge Height: 1.86m ahead of the opposition in South Weight: 74kg Africa but can the ageing stars Age: 27 bring glory to theelder nation for a Position: Midfi second consecutive World Cup Club: Real Madrid (Spain) title? They have not looked the same since 2006 and could of God, Kaká Biography: A firm believer easily atelders any in the world. is onebe of knocked the bestout midfi stage thisup time.

He grew playing football with Sao VERDICT: QUARTER FINAL Paulo FC. Kaká suffered a spinal fracture when he was 18 but fully recovered from IVORY COAST the accident and dedicated his life to the One of hands the twoofAfrican saving God. nations withHis a good chancetrack at therecord Worldat Sao impressive Cup, Coast, in the to AC Milan.

PauloIvory earned himare a move famous ‘Group of Death’ .A bigKaká is Featuring in central midfi eld, goal difference will be goals important influential in creating playing a here as I believe it will gothe down supporting role behind strikers. Kaká to goal to decide won thedifference Ballon d’Or as wellwho as the FIFA goes to the second round.

Player of the Year during his time in Milan.

VERDICT: FIRST ROUND After seven years in Italy, Kaká signed for Real Madrid in a 68.5 million pounds deal.

WEEKLY WORLDelegant CUP PREVIEW 107 Kaká’s footwork have been the lynchpin of his success. He has been able to swiftly transform defence to attack with his dribbling ability. His vision allows him to split open defences with well-time through passes for strikers to score. Kaká is also a good striker of the ball from distance. Such is Kaká’s talent that Brazil will largely depend on him to control the entire midfield single-handedly.

HEAD COACH H Name: Dunga Na Bo Born: October 31, 1963 Bi Birthplace: Ijuí, Brazil Pr Previous Clubs: None Ho Honours: Copa América: 2007; FIFA Co Confederations Cup: 2009

BRAZIL FIXTURES Date: 16 June (WED) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Ellis Park - Johannesburg

Match: Brazil v North Korea

RISING STAR RI Name: Alexandre Pato Na D.O.B: 22 April 1982 D.O Birth Place: Pato Branco, Brazil Bir Height: 1.79m He Weight: 71kg We Age: 20 Ag Position: Striker Pos Club: AC Milan (Italy) Clu Biography: Alexandre Pato, or simply Pato, Bio began his football career on the smaller game beg of ffutsal. From young, Pato has been playing for Internacional in the Brazil League at the age of 17 and in just one year, AC Milan came ask asking for his signature.

In 2008, Pato officially became a Milan play player although he has already been involved in fr friendlies and training sessions with the Itali Italian club since September 2007. It is a rem remarkable young career for the Brazilian as Pat Pato manages to achieve a scoring ratio of one goal in every two games. In only his third sea season with Milan, Pato has helped Milan to vvictories when they seemed like certain def defeats.

Known for his quick pace and skilful drib dribbling, Pato is an extremely dangerous play player. Pato prefers his game on the ground and will be more than happy to try shots in ttight situations. His speed and skills are diffe different from the power play that Adriano and Luis Fabiano offer to Brazil, and Pato will certainly be the man to look out for when Bra Brazil opens their World Cup campaign.

FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

Date: 21 June (MON) Time: 02:30 SG Venue: Soccer City - Johannesburg

Match: Brazil v Ivory Coast Date: 25 June (FRI) Time: 22:00 SG Venue: Moses Mabhida - Durban

Match: Portugal v Brazil

SQUAD LIST z GOALKEEPERS Doni Gomes Julio Césarz DEFENDERS Maicon Marcelo Juan Lúcio Kléber Alex Juan Luisão Daniel Alves MIDFIELDERS Josué Felipe Melo Julio César Baptista Kaká Blumer Elano Gilberto Silva Ramires FORWARDS Robinho Ronaldinho Pato Nilmar Adriano Luis Fabiano

FOOTBALL WEEKLY WORLD CUP PREVIEW

• Thought-provoking editorials • Detailed player profiles • Team-by-team analysis • The latest team updates • Predictions from the panel

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AUSTRALIA SOUTH AUSTRALIA Links Lady Bay Located an hour away from Adelaide, this stunning course was designed by golfing legends Jack Newton, Graeme Grant and John Spencer. Voted number one resort course and public access course in South Australia, it sits at number 64 on Australia’s list of top 100 courses. It has subtle bent greens and is a true St Andrews style sand based course. Strong enough from the back tees to test gifted golfers, yet fair enough to be enjoyed by the average player, the signature 17th, which features in Australia’s best holes, provides a challenging test into the wind for the player striving to gain his or her par. Facilities include accommodation, restaurant and pro-shop.

A: PO Box 1596, Normanville SA 5204 T: (+618) 8558 0650 E: golf@linksladybay.com.au W: www.linksladybay.com.au

Mount Osmond Golf Club Located 15 minutes from Adelaide’s central business district, the Mount Osmond Golf Club has glorious views of Adelaide, the Mt. Lofty Ranges and coastline.

The par-70 18-hole course, which plays 5,698 metres off the blue tees, has a challenging layout of wide undulating fairways and challenging greens, which represents a fair test to every level of player. Facilities include a heritage clubhouse, pro-shop, bar and restaurant.

A: 60 Mt Osmond Road, Mt Osmond, SA 5064 T: (+618) 8379 1673 F: (+618) 8379 0434 E: info@mogc.com.au W: www.mogc.com.au

86 GOLF ASIA

WESTERN AUSTRALIA Joondalup Resort Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. this Perth golf course presents a tough, uncompromising layout, featuring great variation in setting and style. It sweeps across dense bushland, cuts through steep limestone quarries and skirts picturesque lakes, to present surprises and challenges at almost every turn.

One minute you are playing an approach shot beneath a 30-metre limestone cliff, the next you are adapting to the fresh ocean breeze on an undulating links style fairway. There are three nine-hole layouts – the Quarry, Dune and Lake – and all pose different challenges. The Dune is a very tight narrow nine designed for the thinking golfer where accuracy will win over length, the Quarry is cut from an old limestone quarry with a signature par 3 third, and the Lake is an open links style course. Facilities include accommodation, restaurants, golf academy and pro-shop.

A: Country Club Boulevard, Connolly WA 6027 T: (+61 8) 9400 8888 F: +61 8 9400 8889 E: info@joondalupresort.com.au W: www.joondalupresort.com.au

Secret Harbour Golf Links Crafted into the spectacular ocean side landscape, Secret Harbour Golf Links, which is only 45 minutes drive from Perth, boasts 18 holes that lie against the panoramic setting of the Indian Ocean. A traditional Scottish links course designed by Graham Marsh, it reflects the style of Muirfield, Turnberry and St. Andrews with small pot bunkers, rolling fairways amid the natural sand dunes and spectacular ocean views. Each hole presents several tee options depending on wind conditions and the player’s ability. The course presents a mighty challenge from the back tees and an equally enjoyable experience for the average player from the whites. The established original “Links” has been joined by the “Dunes” front nine which Graham Marsh regards as probably the best work he has ever created, and he has used the contours of the natural seaside to bring back the art of shot making. The course has consistently been ranked in the top 25 public access courses in Australia, and the club has recently upgraded its facilities to the tune of A$2 million, and now includes a pro-shop, bar, tennis courts and function room.

A: Secret Harbour Boulevard, Secret Harbour, WA 6173 T: (+618) 9524 7133 F: (+618) 9524 7134 E: info@secretsgolf.com.au W: www.secretsgolf.com.au

GOLF ASIA 87

ESCAPE

AUSTRALIA VICTORIA The National Golf Club The National Golf Club is a 54-hole private members club and, with its three outstanding courses, which include the Old, Moonah and Ocean courses, The National is undoubtedly one of the best pieces of golf real estate in the country. Perched upon seaside cliff tops and the rolling dunes of Cape Schanck on the Mornington Peninsula, The Nationalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dramatic landscape will engage you in a sense of place while the impressive course designs will engage your sense of skill. Although a private club, overseas visitors can send in a written request to play a round. Facilities include a clubhouse, golf academy and pro-shop.

A: The Cups Drive, Cape Schanck, VIC 3939 T: (+613) 5988 6666 E: info@nationalgolf.com.au W: www.nationalgolf.com.au

88 GOLF ASIA

Royal Melbourne This is the oldest club in Australia, and the private members club is home to both the East and West course, with the latter named as the number one course in Australia. The West course was the venue of last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World Cup International team event, which was won by Adam Scott and Jason Day. The West course was designed in 1926 by renowned Scottish golf architect, Dr Alister MacKenzie, working with the help of Alex Russell and Mick Morcom (Head Greenkeeper); the

course was opened for play in 1931.

The East course was designed by Alex Russell and was laid out during 193031 and, with Mick Morcom in charge of construction, was ready for play in 1932. Facilities include a driving range, clubhouse, pro-shop and restaurant.

A: Cheltenham Road, Black Rock, Victoria 3193 T: (+613) 9599 0500 F: (+613) 9521 0065 E: rmgc@royalmelbourne.com.au W: www.royalmelbourne.com.au

TASMANIA Barnbougle Dunes Golf Links Situated roughly 90 minutes drive from Launceston airport, this traditional links course, which currently holds a slew of awards such as number one public access course in Australia as well as a placing in the top ďŹ ve courses in the country, was completed in December 2004. Golf at Barnbougle is a game of strategy, where each shot requires tactical thought and a little creativity can be rewarding. Fairways are wide, wider than most golfers will have experienced on traditional courses, and the greens are lively; rolling with the natural undulation of the dunes and the 4th hole boasts the largest bunker in the southern hemisphere this course is designed to challenge. Facilities include a driving range, short game facilities as well as chipping and putting practice greens, in addition to clubhouse, pro-shop and accommodation in the form of villas and cottages.

A: Bridport, Tasmania. Australia T: (03) 6356 0094 W: www.barnbougle.com.au

Tasmania Golf Club Open for play back in 1971, this club has hosted many tournaments over the years including the Australian Amateur Championship and the Tasmanian Open. Bounded by water on three sides, it is set on the picturesque Barilla Bluff, just 15 minutes east of the Hobart CBD and only two minutes from the Hobart Airport. The par 72, 6,214 metre course was designed by Al Howard and the result is a challenging, undulating course characterised by well bunkered, breaking greens that reward well thought out approach shots. Facilities include a clubhouse with restaurant, driving range and pro-shop.

A: 1420 Tasman Highway, Cambridge, Tasmania 7172 T: (03) 62 485098 F: (03) 62 485658 E: golf@tasmaniagolfclub.com.au W: www.tasmaniagolfclub.com.au

GOLF ASIA 89

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AUSTRALIA

festivals, NYE celebrations and outdoor cultural events.

IMAGES @ LADY ELLIOT ISLAND ECO RESORT, PORT ARTHUR HISTORIC SITE MGT. AUTHORITY

See Australia in Autumn Discover the magical diversity of Australia’s autumn, lasting from March to May across most of the Australia’s Seasons Australia is a country for all seasons. You can do practically anything here, at any time of year.

There are four seasons across most of the country and a wet and dry season in our tropical north. Summer in Australia, from December to February, is a great time to get outdoors.

Swim Sydney’s beaches or hike Tasmania’s Overland Track. March to May heralds Australia’s autumn, a season of fiery foliage in Canberra and the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Melbourne.

Australia’s winter, from June to August, offers snow skiing in the Australian Alps. Alternatively, take a winter sun holiday. Snorkel in the temperate Great Barrier Reef or 4WD through South Australia’s Simpson Desert. Spring in Australia, from September to November is the time to watch for whales and wildflowers as you explore the wineries of Western Australia’s Margaret River region.

In tropical Australia, the dry season from May to October has clear blue skies and sunny days. It’s the time to experience Darwin’s vibrant outdoor markets, movies and festivals. December to March is the wet season, which is hot and humid with daily rainstorms.

See waterfalls thunder through Litchfield and Kakadu National

90 GOLF ASIA

Parks or fly over Katherine Gorge when its water levels are highest.

Discover Australia’s Summer Experience Australia’s glorious summer from December to February. Walk along spectacular coastal cliffs from Sydney’s Bondi Beach to Bronte. Day trip from Melbourne to the vineyards, beaches, national parks, golf courses and day spas of the Mornington Peninsula. Taste Tasmania’s finest food and wine on the historic Hobart waterfront or explore food, wine and history in the Swan Valley, near Perth.

Follow fresh seafood around the pristine coastline of South Australia’s Eyre Peninsula or watch coral spawning en-masse on Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef. Experience dazzling thunderstorms and blossoming vegetation in the tropical Top End. Or get up close to native Australian animals and ancient Aboriginal history in Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve, near Canberra.

Summer in Australia is also the season for world class cricket, grand slam tennis, vibrant music

country. See red-gold trees in Orange, a rural food and wine hub west of Sydney. Explore vineyards, villages and mist-cloaked forests in Victoria’s Yarra Valley. Take on adventure along the scenic Brisbane River. Experience life as a drover on a cattle drive along South Australia’s historic Oodnadatta Track. Head to lush Litchfield National Park in the Northern Territory or to Western Australia’s Kununurra for the huge Ord Valley Muster. White water raft on Tasmania’s wild west coast or fish and camp along the Murrumbidgee River Corridor, near Canberra. Autumn is also jam-packed with events, from food and wine festivals to fashion weeks and Melbourne’s Grand Prix.

Discover Australia in Winter Welcome to winter in Australia, which lasts from June to August

for most of the country. These months fall in the dry season in the tropical north. You can ski and snowboard down Victoria’s powdered slopes or snorkel and dive the balmy waters of Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef.

Four wheel drive South Australia’s Simpson Desert or head to the Blue Mountains for Christmas festivities. Follow Western Australia’s wildflower trail or embrace the Northern Territory’s unique festival culture. Snuggle next to a roaring fire at Canberra’s Fireside Festival or celebrate the winter solstice in Hobart’s cobblestone streets. Winter is also a great season to discover our coastline, where you can spot migrating whales and dive with a dazzling array of marine life.

Discover Australia’s Spring Discover Australia’s spring season, which lasts from September to November for most of the country. In our tropical north, this is the ‘buildup’ or pre-monsoonal season.

Watch Melbourne dress up for the nation-stopping Melbourne Cup. Enjoy opera, jazz, blues and sculpture amongst the wineries of the Hunter Valley, near Sydney.

Combine food, wine, diving and surfing in Western Australia’s Margaret River. Trek through the primeval treetops in Queensland’s World Heritage-listed Daintree Rainforest. Experience the wildlife and wildflower show on South Australia’s Kangaroo Island or snare a prize barramundi during the Northern Territory’s ‘build-up’.

See Canberra come alive with a million spring blooms at Floriade or follow Tasmania’s blooming gardens to natural and historic attractions. In Australia, spring is also a great season to surf, sea kayak and canoe. © Tourism Australia 2014

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The Greg-Norman designed 18-hole Laguna Bintan Golf Club is pure inspiration for aspiring and seasoned golfers alike. Set in 60 hectares of a tropical Eden, it lets nature define the course winding through the diverse terrains of forestlands, natural wetlands, beachfront coconut groves and an abandoned quarry.

The greens can be challenging at times – practice your putting skills beforehand if you want to score on par. The memorable signature holes 7 and 8 are framed by the South China Sea that welcome you with a refreshing sea breeze. Relish the view while deciding on which club to use in order to drive successfully across the sea, past the daunting rocks, towards the 8th green. It is a golfing experience unmatched in this part of the region.

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LUXE T I M E P I E C E S • S T Y L E • G RO O M I N G • G A D G E T S • AU TO S

LUXE TIMEPIECES MB&F Keenly forward-thinking yet richly traditional, the Horological Machines by MB&F are renown for their contemporary reimagining of classical machinery, and the Legacy Machine No. 1 Xia Hang is a horological marvel that is both elegant and playful. The majestically suspended oscillating balance wheel is flanked by a miniature aluminium sculpture that indicates power reserve. Affectionately named Mr. Up and Mr. Down, and modelled after the ‘comma men’ from Xia Hang’s 2005-2008 art collections, the figurine sits erect and attentive when power is full, and slowly slumps in fatigue as power drains. The LM1 Xia Hang is available in a limited 12 pieces in red and white gold each, and will come with a pair of large-scale stainless steel sculptures of Mr. Up and Mr. Down.

VACHERON CONSTANTIN A triumph in watchmaking and a genuine rarity in haute horlogerie, the master craftsmen at Vacheron Constantin have found a solution to the complex question of how to build a perfectly openworked tourbillon – entirely in-house.

The demanding art of openworking is injected with technical mastery in the form of the new tonneau-shaped Calibre 2790 SQ that beats steadily within its ethereally light platinum case.

A subtle interplay of light and shadow through its sapphire dial and caseback creates three-dimensional depth and geometry, showcasing the breathtaking architecture of the exceptional mechanism that won the Malte Tourbillon Openworked, its prestigious Hallmark of Geneva badge.

102 *2/) $6,$

FRANCK MULLER A true vanguard in its own right, Franck Muller has always been an inexhaustible leader in the world of avant-garde design. Audaciously futuristic with impeccably balanced contours and proportions, the latest Vanguard collection is sporty yet elegant with its appliqué relief numerals and hand-polished dial and crown.

The croco strap melds seamlessly into its iconic Cintrée Curvex case, creating a flawless and clean aesthetic that is punctuated with sporty red accents. The entire collection is available in titanium, 18k rose gold, and red ergal, and offers automatic classic or chronograph movements.

IWC Dating back to 1967, the Aquatimer collection's distinct masculinity and technical prowess has made it a dynamic contender as the watch of choice for professional sports. This year, the collection sees even more in-house innovations, such as the bracelet quick-change system, and the inclusion of perpetual calendar and digital date display complications in a diving watch. This Aquatimer Chronograph Edition “Expedition Charles Darwin” is a tribute piece that recognises the journey of well-known naturalist Charles Darwin, and his discoveries in the Galapagos that eventually built the foundation for evolutionary theory. The case features the brand’s first everbronze case, and houses the in-house manufactured 89365 calibre.

PANERAI A fascinating combination of history, technology, and design, the Radiomir 1940 Chronograph is Officine Panerai’s newest offering to the realm of high quality chronographs, its 45mm cushion-shaped case sporting the brand’s signature wire loop strap. The new combination of case materials and dial colours makes the Radiomir 1940 Chronograph both traditional and original at the same time, with options in platinum, red gold, or white gold. Powered by the hand-wound OP XXV calibre, the model features a clear tachymeter scale with two chronograph counters, and is limited to only 50 and 100 pieces each for the platinum and gold versions respectively.

CORUM Gérard Sené, acclaimed tailor and authority in the Parisian luxury footwear and clothing universe, has now dressed the Ti-Bridge Power Reserve, a contemporary interpretation of Corum’s iconic Golden Bridge horizontal baguette movement. A brilliant partnership between a master watchmaker and a true leather expert, the limited edition Ti-Bridge Power Reserve Gérard Sené is handcrafted with a specially “iced” leather strap that is meticulously rubbed, waxed, and brushed to give its desired lavish and shine; and when partnered with its all black PVD-treated titanium case, it is the perfect harmony of audacity and sobriety in an avant-garde aesthetic.

H. MOSER & CIE. Bold elegance in haute horlogerie – that is how H. Moser & Cie. are standing out from the crowd this 2014, and its darkly classic Perpetual Calendar Black Edition is certainly testament to that. The unique calendar movement is one of the few that can be adjusted backward or forward without risk of damage to the mechanism, and even the months indicator is a mastery of understatement: a discrete arrow hand that marks the month using the hour indices. Luxury details include the Moser “M” extrusion on the crown, and an immaculately matte DLC-treated titanium with impeccable gold accents.

*2/) $6,$ 103

LUXE TIMEPIECES ULYSSE NARDIN Majestic and graceful, yet powerfully controlled and selfdetermined, the Classico Horse from Ulysse Nardin is a tribute to the untamed animal spirit within us that propels our adventurous and independent character. As one of the few watchmakers that have devoted itself to the highly specialised art of dial enamelling, the Classico Horse is the materialisation of the intricate champlevé method that involves masterful carving and polishing to give exceptional multi-dimension and luminous colour. Only 88 pieces of this limited edition 18k rose gold are available, the self-winding UN-815 movement showcased through the exhibition window on its sapphire caseback.

BREITLING ITLING Celebrating half a century of airborne feats, Breitling has chosen to honour the Patrouille Suisse with a unique Chronomat that bears the flight team logo at 9 o’clock on the dial, and features an engraving of the 50th anniversary logo on the caseback. This dedication piece is sturdy in satin-brushed steel and inlaid rubber numerals, yet delicately elegant with the second hour hand tipped by the outline of a red F-5E Tiger II. The 1000-piece limited edition Chronomat 44 GMT “Patrouille Suisse 50th Anniversary” is powered by the self-winding COSC-certified Manufacture Breitling Calibre B04, and marked with a unique serial number.

BREVA Developed by award-winning Chronode movement constructor Jean-François Mojon, the Breva Génie 02 Air is a high-performance altimeter that is perfect for the passionate thrill-seeker. Whether you’re paragliding, skydiving, mountain climbing, or skiing, the Génie 02 Air’s pilot complication precision altimeter with two aneroid capsules for measuring air pressure will be your perfect sports companion. The stunning 415-component mechanism is beautifully crafted and visible through the front, while just above the 4 o’clock crown, a red band marked “SEALED” on the dial informs when the valve is unlocked. This limited edition 55-piece in titanium is available for calibration in either metres or feet.

104 *2/) $6,$

TISSOT Fantasy with substance, the Tissot Rose Dream is the bridge between romantic design and timeless style.

Meticulously crafted with the utmost attention to detail using contemporary materials and mechanical mastery, the 18k rose gold case comes with a white or black dial, and houses a Swiss-made automatic movement that is fully visible through its sapphire crystal caseback. Understanding that romance is timeless, the Tissot Rose Dream is exactly what love should be – enduring, alluring, inspiring.

JAERMANN & STÜBI A rising star in the world of golf watches, Jaermann & Stübi unveils the complication behind its acclaimed “Stroke Play” collection with a new skeleton design. Presented at this year’s Baselworld, the Stroke Play Skeleton embodies the brand’s blend of technical expertise and unique design, the openworked dial revealing its finely tuned miniature mechanical gem heart flanked by Côtes de Genève motifs on its upper plate. The rotating bezel helps players monitor and compare handicaps, while the powerful shock absorber visible from its caseback is able to buffer against the brunt of most golf swings.

PARMIGIANI FLEURIER The Tonda Métrographe is the spirit of urban life in a watch, the magic and duality of city life captured in a stylishly asymmetrical steel case. Using the principle of contrasts to highlight its aesthetics, the left-hand profile is conventionally teardrop shaped, while the right-hand profile features elongated lugs extending to the crown, and the chronograph complication is highlighted with SuperLuminova outlining its minute and hour counters. A distinctly cosmopolitan design, the Tonda Métrographe comes in either leather strap or streamlined steel bracelet.

RAYMOND WEIL Combining accessible luxury with the brand’s impeccable quality and technical precision, Raymond Weil’s new toccata collection aims to impress wider audiences with their elegance and expertise. Emotions, precision, performance: inspired by the composer behind the musical masterpiece, the refined case and pure lines blend harmoniously into a timeless silhouette that reflects boldness and creativity. Housing a traditional quartz movement, the toccata is available in 29, 39, and 43mm diameters, with the grand finale model featuring a satin-sunray silver dial with steel bracelet, exuding subtlety and poise. *2/) $6,$ 105

LUXE TIMEPIECES

Spotless perfection housed within a clean-cut face PHOTOGRAPHY CHING • STYLING MELISSA LORRAINE CHUA

PATEK PHILIPPE CALATRAVA REF. 5227 IN WHITE GOLD

106 *2/) $6,$

TIMED TO SURGICAL PRECISION

PIAGET ALTIPLANO (REF. GOA35130) IN WHITE GOLD

*2/) $6,$ 107

LUXE TIMEPIECES

A. LANGE & SOHNE SAXONIA THIN IN WHITE GOLD

108 *2/) $6,$

BLANCPAIN VILLERET ULTRAPLATE (REF. 6653-1542-55B) IN WHITE GOLD

*2/) $6,$ 109

LUXE TIMEPIECES OMEGA DE VILLE CO-AXIAL CHRONOMETER IN STEEL

110 *2/) $6,$

VULCAIN 50S PRESIDENTS’ WATCH IN STEEL

*2/) $6,$ 111

LUXE STYLE

Summer Fling

BOSS Summer ‘14

Scorching hot shades to make a sizzling statementt

PRADA luggage tag

NAUTICA NST 550 Tide Temp Compass

LOUIS VUITTON Taurillon leather wallet

TOD’S belt

GUCCI carbon fibre frames

112 *2/) $6,$

CA CANALI ANALI ttextured t d silk ilk tie ti

LUXE GROOMING

Fierce Poise Dominate the scene with a confidence that resonates from within, with th the aid of these tried-and-proven bestsellers ers CLINIQUE FOR MEN So confident is the brand with its men’s skincare line, that the products have remained unchanged since 1976. Now, to further streamline the needs of the modern, busy male, Clinique Skin Supplies for Men is relaunched, now called Clinique for Men. More than just a change of name, seven new products have also been launched across Clinique’s ‘Cleanse, Exfoliate, Moisturise’ categories, harnessing new technology as well as addressing the fact that men’s skin loses hydration at faster rates due not just to the environment, but also shaving routines. For hot climates, Watery Moisture Lotion is the equivalent of a serum but lighter, while still ensuring oil-control, hydration, and radiance. Our test on the Anti-Age Moisturiser showed quick absorption into skin, the scentless cream leaving no oily residue, and a hydration that can be felt all day. Complement your routine with the existing shaving, toning, spot-correcting and eyecare lines, where in-store iPad units will be able to help find the best products for your individual skincare needs.

T TOM FORD RD T ’s best-selling fragrance, Tom Ford’s P end Oud Wood – incense Private Blend th that is derived from Agarwood and vvalued for its distinctive fragrance – is revisited. The renowned fashion d designer describes Oud as ‘one of the m most endlessly fascinating ingredients in a perfumer’s palette’, this time in incorporating new ingredients fr from the fascinating and artisanal tr traditions of the Middle East. The re result is Private Blend Tobacco Oud, e exploring ‘dokha’ – the secret history o of Arabic passions. First developed fifive centuries ago when there was a b ban on smoking, this dizzying blend of h herbs, spices, bark and dried flowers is carried over into Tobacco Oud, aadded with roasted tonka absolute for a warm, heady buzz.

BVLGARI A new spinoff from the existing masculine Aqva Pour Homme, perfumer Jacques Cavallier sought to create a fragrance that would ‘radiate sunlight when worn’, resulting in Aqva Amara EDT. Keeping its predecessor’s distinct aquatic and Mediterranean tone, the new energetic scent opens with zesty Sicilian mandarin coated with essences of sweet neroli, barely hiding the shimmering heart of cool spring water. A few hours later, the scent dries down to reveal warm Indonesian patchouli and white incense olibanum, an imprinting of boldness onto the wearer.

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LUXE POSH NOSH GATTOPARDO Formerly located at the Fort Canning Hotel, Gattopardo has found a new home in a quaint two-storey shop house sited along Singapore’s Tras Street.

The restaurant’s new move is accompanied by a revamp to their identity: the original, ‘Italian Grill and Pizza Bar’ tagline is replaced with ‘Ristorante di Mare’, which translates to ‘Seafood Restaurant’. Helmed by chef Lino Sauro, the new menu, which will be rotated every season, will feature plenty of seafood dishes – the seafood offered here are sourced from, Friend Of The Sea Sustainable Seafood-Certified fisheries from all around the world. Some of the highlights from the winter menu include the Norwegian live scallop with chickpea puree and broccoli rabes (S$34), crispy pork belly (S$40), and the signature Gattopardo seafood stew in terracotta pot. Our favourite dish, however, was the oyster served with green apple mojito and baeri caviar (S$36) – a deftly executed dish by chef Sauro that features an incredible juxtaposition of flavours. Cap off a hearty meal with dessert – we had the Sicilian traditional ricotta cheesecake with candied fruits and almond paste, which offers a delicious twist on a classic cheesecake.

34/36 Tras Street, Singapore. Tel: 65/6338-5498

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LUXE LIVING

BoCONCEPT Urban Danish design company BoConcept presents their new fusion collection by nendo, a collaboration between two truly contemporary houses in design and interior.

Founded by 24-year old Oki Sato in Tokyo in 2002, nendo has since become one of the most prolific and ubiquitous global design companies today, with an impressive list of international awards, including ‘Designer of the Year’ by Wallpaper magazine and Elle Deco International Design Award. Named after the Japanese word for modelling clay, nendo is dedicated to minimalism with a playful character, an aesthetic that is thoroughly present in the modern yet functional fusion collection. Natural materials such as wood and leather are respectfully treated to give unexpected twists in the form of shapes and colours. Authentic and honest, each piece in the collection is unfolds elegantly to bring inviting comfort and lush serenity to your home.

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LUXE GADGETS

ASUS With its ability to switch between a laptop, tablet, and desktop PC, the ASUS Transformer Book Trio is a revolutionary combination of unmatched flexibility and stellar performance. The 4th Generation Intel Core processor give seamless multi-tasking performance and energy efficiency, while the 11.6inch display with full HD resolution and IPS technology transforms effortlessly into a multi-touch Android 4.2 tablet for enjoyment on-the-go. Boasting a backlit keyboard, 178-degree viewing angle, SonicMaster stereo audio technology and 720p HD front camera for the ultimate gaming experience, the Trio also has the stamina to last up to 13 hours when in Android tablet mode, and 5 hours in Windows 8 laptop mode.

BANG & OLUFSEN Having spent years conducting ethnographic and behavioural research into how people access and enjoy their music, Bang & Olufsen has discovered that most users face a conflict of opportunities – as most digital media are stored on devices or cloud-based music servers, connecting, finding, and selecting preferred music is a deterring hassle. The new BeoSound Essence is a game changer that radically simplifies this process, syncing a panoply of digital music platforms to give users direct access to their combined libraries with a simple touch. The sound system consists of a touch remote and a hide-away box that magically accesses AirPlay and DLNA streaming, Spotify Connect, QPlay and a plethora of global Internet radio stations.

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SAMSUNG From one of our favourite leading names in the tablet game, the 12.2-inch GALAXY NotePRO comes with a host of pre-loaded and free downloadable content like the Cisco WebEx Meetings platform and Hancom Office for Android that make it extraordinarily versatile for both work and play. It features the world’s first 12.2-inch WQXGA Widescreen with a crystal clear display of more than 4 million pixels, and a fully personalised dashboard with Virtual Keyboard that leverages haptic feedback for a more realistic typing experience. With its superior world-class productivity and stunning premium entertainment, the new GALAXY NotePRO is the perfect device for both content creation and consumption.

SONY Sony’s flagship waterproof Xperia Z2 is a veritable smorgasbord of state-of-the-art technology in a slim 8.2mm body. With awardwinning “G Lens”, 20.7 MP Exmor RS CMOS image sensor and BIONZ processing engine, the latest Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 with 2.3 GHz quad-core Krait CPUs and 3GB RAM, and a 4K resolution video capture with SteadyShot, the Xperia Z2 always offers sharp, vivid and beautiful photos and videos. Stunningly presented on a 5.2-inch Full HD TRILUMINOS Display with Live Colour LED and the world’s first Digital Noise Cancelling Technology in a phone, it’s hard to argue against the claim that the Xperia Z2 is now the smartest Smartphone on the block.

NIKON With a brand new EXPEED 4 image-processing engine and advanced algorithms in its autofocus AF system, Nikon’s new flagship D4S D-SLR is a powerful blend of performance, optics, and innovation. Its stunning sharpness, enhanced depth, and advanced tracking highperformance AF meets professional demands by delivering outstanding image and video quality, even under the most extreme of conditions. The D4S body is able to handle ISO sensitivities from 50 up to 409,600 with an improved auto white balance to give more realistic and accurate colour reproductions – regardless of whether there is a transition in brightness or lighting conditions mid-frame.

TOMTOM Delivering at-a-glance performance information for runners, cyclists, and swimmers, the new ultra-slim TomTom Runner and TomTom Multi-Sport GPS watches are the perfect training partners for any sporting enthusiast. The extra-large high-resolution graphical display can be controlled using a one-touch system to track and monitor workout goals, and can be attached with a multitude of optional accessories that will allow you to monitor your heart rate and track cadence and elevation. Hook it up to your desktop to sync, analyse, and share stats with your fitness community using workout programmes such as MapMyFitness, RunKeeper, TrainingPeaks, and TomTom’s own MySports website.

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LUXE AUTOS

Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse Rembrandt

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84 GENEVA INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW The motor show with more of an international character Hamann

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Quant e-Sportlimousine

Gumpert Apollo

BMW i8

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he 84th Geneva International Motor Show was held at PALEXPO from the 6th to 16th March 2014. The show was opened by the President of the Swiss Confederation, Mr Didier Burkhalter, the President of the State Council of the Republic and Canton of Geneva, Mr François Longchamp, and the President of the Motor Show, Mr Maurice Turrettini. Some 250 exhibitors from around 30 countries shared a net exhibition area of almost 80,047 square meters within a gross floor area of 110,000 m². As the only international motor show held annually during the spring in Europe and on “neutral territory”, the Geneva International Motor Show is known as one of the most representative in the industry.

Many top manufacturers unveiled their major innovations at the show, with close to 146 world and European premieres announced in the motor cars, special bodywork and converted cars sections alone. Here we bring you some highlights of the show.

Maserati Alfieri concept Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II

Ferrari 458 Speciale

Touring Superleggera Disco Volante

McLaren 650S Spider

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LUXE SCENE

Grand Philanthropy Hublot and The King of Football partner to give back to the children and future of football in Japan

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s the Official Timekeeper and Official Watchmaker for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil, Hublot CEO Ricardo Guadalupe and Brand Ambassador Pelé unveiled the exceptional Basel piece Big Bang Unico Bi-retrograde Chrono, and raised funds in support of the Japan Football Association (JFA) “Soccer Family Reconstruction Support Fund” for recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake. At the charity football event in Tokyo on 13 March 2014, 11 lucky participants, all children who aspired to become future members of the Japan National Team, were given the privileged opportunity to be coached by “The King of Football” himself to shoot for the ultimate “10 Million Kick Target”, finally scoring 6 shots for a total amount of 3,000,000 yen donated by Hublot.

While the previous limited edition Classic Fusion World Cup 2010 edition bore a trophy engraving, the new Big Bang Unico Bi-Retrograde Chronograph features the national colours of host country Brazil. A private Gala Dinner Party for 200 guests was organised on the following evening, 14 March 2014, to present this 2014 World Cup Brazil exclusive model and auction off the oneof-a-kind Aero Fusion Chronograph Pelé with serial number 000 for the “Soccer Family Reconstruction Support Fund”.

In addition to the watch, autographed soccer boots, photographs, a wall clock, and uniforms were also auctioned off to raise a whopping total of 8,600,000 yen for JFA’s relief efforts. *2/) $6,$ 121

LUXE SCENE

Exceptional Expeditions Louis Vuitton designs exclusive tailor-made carbon fibre luggage for the revolutionary BMW i8

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he pioneer in the art of luggage and the leader in innovative driving technology have come together to create the epitome of elegance in travel. The forwardlooking collection by Louis Vuitton comprises two travel bags, a business case, and a garment bag that stow away perfectly in the interior of the BMW i8, the ultimate expression of aesthetics with efficiency. The i8’s trademark colours of electric blue and carbon black have been ingenuously crafted into the collection’s microfiber lining and natural-dyed leather.

Patrick-Louis-Vuitton, Head of Special Orders and great grandson of the House’s founder, says, “This collaboration with BMW i epitomises our shared values of creativity, technological innovation and style… a pure expression of the art of travel.”

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Cool Runnings Westin and New Balance help guests to help themselves – and others

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ork out. Do Good.’ Westin’s charity initiative that encourages keeping fit for a good cause got off to a running start on 21 February 2014, with nearly 100 guests, participants, and running enthusiasts present in support of the runWESTIN launch event. As part of the programme, Westin Hotels & Resorts will donate one new pair of New Balance shoes to Soles4Shoes and the Zhejiang Xinhua Compassion Education Foundation for every 20 guests that loan Westin New Balance gear when they stay at any of the 35 participating properties in the region. In addition to eliminating the hassle of packing bulky workout gear, the runWESTIN programme also offers 5-8km running routes that have been planned to maximise their guests’ enjoyment of fresh air and local scenery. *2/) $6,$ 123

LUXE SCENE

Peak Performance Chopard and Porsche enter into a prestigious partnership for the long-awaited Porsche Motorsport

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s an extension of Chopard’s enduring engagement and commitment to automotive sports, the Geneva watchmaker has been named Official Timing Partner of this year’s Porsche Motorsport. The highly anticipated LMP1 Endurance Championship, namely the highlight “24 Heures du Mans” event, will reinforce the houses’ benchmarks of extraordinary precision, exceptional mechanics, and reliable innovation. A name that has become synonymous with legendary motor racing, Porsche hopes to stage a grand comeback with its 919 Porsche Hybrid. Their secret weapon: Jacky Ickx, six-time winner of the trial, longstanding Chopard ambassador and “Mr Le Mans” himself, behind the wheel.

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Dashingly Dapper Hackett London inaugurates its flagship boutique at Marina Bay Sands

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elebrating cutting-edge luxury and impeccable taste, Jeremy Hackett was proud to present the opening of the first boutique in Singapore from his eponymous fashion line. Business partners, VIPs and media attended the ribbon cutting ceremony at the Marina Bay Sands boutique on 13 March 2014, and were treated to the unique Hackett London guerrilla advertising campaign – a bevy of dapperly dressed men who have been making their way through the streets of Singapore, from Haji Lane and Chinatown, to Clarke Quay and Gardens

by The Bay. The brand, renowned for its modern sensibilities rooted in traditional aesthetics, has been rapidly gaining ground as the most recognisable name in quintessential British style with its “Essential British Kit” offering.

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LUXE SCENE

Nicole Kidman, New York, 2003 © Annie Leibovitz from, A Photographer’s Life 1990 -2005, Courtesy of Vogue

Celebrity Culture Annie Leibovitz’s fascinating life on display at the ArtScience Museum

Leonardo diCaprio, Tejon Ranch, Lebec, California, 1997 © Annie Leibovitz from, A Photographer’s Life 1990 – 2005, Courtesy of Vanity Fair

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Annie Leibovitz at home with her children Samuelle, Sarah and Susan (with their dog, Lola), Rhinebeck, New York, 2012 Photograph by Nick Rogers © Annie Leibovitz

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s one of the only two stops in Asia, the ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands is to play host to almost 200 photographs by world-renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz.

Starting out in 1970 as a staff photographer for rock music magazine Rolling Stone, Leibovitz’s career has since skyrocketed to international fame, and has made her one of America’s most celebrated and recognisable living artists in her field. The exhibition, Annie Leibovitz A Photographer’s Life 1990-2005, will open its doors on 18 April 2014, and will showcase a careful curation of her work, from personal portraits and fashion photographs to private life moments, a compelling narrative of her contemporary life.

Diamond In The Rough Rolex fosters our next generation of great artistic leaders

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Peter Zumthor, Architecture mentor ©KEYSTONE / CHRISTIAN BEUTLER

biennial philanthropic programme that was instituted in 2002 to share the world’s artistic heritage across generations, continents, and cultures, the prestigious Rolex Mentor and Protégé Arts Initiative sources out the brightest up-and-comers from around the world to be mentored by distinguished veterans in their respective fields. Artistic disciplines include architecture, dance, film, literature, music, theatre, and visual arts. Some of the renowned names that have served on the panel of mentors include Margaret Atwood, (the late) Sir Colin Davis, William Forsythe, Anish Kapoor, Martin Scorsese and Zhang Yimou.

Following its worldwide search, Rolex has announced its 25 finalists who range from 22 to 38 years and come from 21 different countries, which will be narrowed down to an exclusive selection of only seven artists who will receive one-to-one mentorship during this year’s 12-month programme.

Kaija Saariaho, Music mentor ©PRISKA KETTERER

Olafur Eliasson, Visual arts mentor ©STUDIO OLAFUR ELIASSON

Jennifer Tipton, Theatre mentor ©2005 LOIS GREENFIELD

Alexei Ratmansky, Dance mentor ©FABRIZIO FERRI

Michael Ondaatje, Literature mentor ©JEFF NOLTE

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LUXE INSPIRATION KOENIGSEGG ONE:1 (2014) The One:1 program by Koenigsegg is one of the most exclusive production car program ever envisaged. The HP to Kg curb weight ratio is an astonishing 1:1. This is the “dream” equation previously thought impossible. On top of this the One:1 is the first homologated production car in the world with one Megawatt of power, thereby making it the world’s first series produced Megacar.

The One:1 features new and unique solutions to enhance track performance without compromising top speed or everyday usability, with a stunning visual appearance to go with it. In order to give the One:1 maximum flexibility when it comes to power delivery, Koenigsegg has implemented its patented variable turbo geometry technology in the One:1 Program. This technology gives improved response and more low-end torque than otherwise possible. For example, the One:1 engine has over 1000Nm of torque between 3000 to 7500 rpm.

128 GOLF ASIA

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